Google has just provided its Nougat with an update so that the build number now stands at Android 7.1.2. However, before you get too excited, it is only a minor update that is focussed primarily on fixing known bugs while also improving overall performance as well. Further, the update is only available in beta form, which means only those devices that are part of the beta program are eligible for the update.
There is going to be a few enhancements too scattered along though Google hasn’t specifically revealed what the new update brings along. The only bit that the Mountain view company stated is that it comes with ‘enhancements for carriers and users,’ which adds more to the mystery than clears it.
Also while it remains to be seen how the new update can enhance – or otherwise – our Android experience, there prevails a bit of confusion as to which devices qualify for the update. Google has spelt out the update is applicable to just a handful of devices which includes the Pixel, Pixel XL, Pixel C, Nexus 5X and the Nexus Player.
The Nexus 6P too is included in the list but is categorized as ‘coming soon,’ with no mention how soon is that going to be. This also makes the latest Android update a bit too exclusive; more so given that even the Nexus 6 or Nexus 9 too is kept out of it. Both the devices, however, were provided with the last Android update, one with the build number 7.1.1.
The update also comes at a time when Google is seen struggling to enhance the user base of Nougat. It is just about 0.5 percent of all Android devices that have Nougat installed in them though experts opine, the situation is going to improve in 2017 only when new devices having nougat pre-installed starts to reach markets.
Google has been particularly keen to see device manufacturers introduce the latest Android version on their respective devices. While that is laudable, what is interesting is that Marshmallow is running on only 29.6 percent of devices. Also, Android KitKat that was launched in Oct. 2013 continues to be the second biggest user base of Android devices with 22.6 percent market share.
