Google made Android 7.0 Nougat update available to some of its devices last month, but users had to update the firmware by manually installing it. Smartphone users, who don't know how to install the OS manually or don't want to go through the procedure, can now download it via OTA (over-the-air).
The search giant had released Android 7.0 Nougat final build to all the eligible devices -- Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Nexus Player, Pixel C and Android One -- on Aug. 22, but not via OTA. Following queries from impatient fans on its Twitter handle, the company said a few days later that the firmware will be available via OTA, but would take a few weeks to reach some devices as the roll out happens in phases.
However, the 2013 Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 will not get the new OS.
How to install Android 7.0 Nougat on your device via OTA:
- Android 7.0 Nougat download notification will appear on your phone screen
- Press "Download" button
- Press "Restart & Install" button
- Rebooting will begin automatically
- You will see "Installing System Update" notice when installation starts
- Upgrading begins automatically
- Android 7.0 Nougat will run on your device after upgrading is done
You can also manually check availability of the new software by going to – 'Settings' >> 'About phone' >> 'System updates' >> 'Check For Update'.
Unlike in the past where Google released operating systems through its devices, the first smartphone to be shipped with Android 7.0 Nougat is the LG V20. The new firmware is expected to be seeded to popular devices from Samsung, Motorola, Xiaomi, Lenovo and other smartphone makers in the next few months.
Android 7.0 Nougat brings several new features, like customisable home screen widgets, split screen multitasking, expanded emojis and smarter battery usage via the Doze feature. The update will also come with a data saver feature for data conscious users that will block background apps from accessing cellular data.
