Google releases Android 7.1 developer preview for selected Nexus devices

Google has today released the developer preview of next incremental update of Android Nougat for select nexus devices. The update brings the version number up to 7.1 for these devices.

Changes for common users

Major changes coming in this update for common users are:

• This build includes early daydream VR support for Nexus devices with compatible chipsets.
• It adds a restart button in the power menu, something which nexus users have been asking for years.
• It includes support for image keyboards, so users can now send images and gifs directly through a third party keyboard.
• It features new wallpapers which debuted along with Pixel phones earlier this month.

Changes for developers

Some changes coming for developers in this update are:

• This update adds support of API level 25 SDK, a step above 7.0 (which supports API level 24) and includes better support for VR and integration with Google Assistant.
• Along with the API Level 25 SDK, Google has also updated the Android Support Library to 25.0.0. The new version lets you add image keyboard support with compatibility back to API level 13. It also introduces BottomNavigationView widget, which implements the bottom navigation pattern from the material design guidelines.
• The Google APIs Emulator System images shipped with the Android API Level 25 SDK include support for round icons and the new Google Pixel Launcher. The Google API system image allows you to test how an app’s circular app icons look in devices that support circular icons. Also, if you are developing live wallpapers, you can also use the new system images with the Android Emulator to test the enhanced preview metadata in Android 7.1.
  

How to get this update?

If you have a Nexus 6p, Nexus 5x or Pixel C, you can enroll in Android beta program here and download this update today. For users with Nexus 6 and other devices, you will have to wait until the final version, which is expected to bring support for more devices.