Tech Trend 247

Android 7.0 Nougat has arrived.

For the most part, Nougat's noteworthy features are under-the-hood changes like the better Doze battery and data saver, split-screen mode and a whole bunch of new emoji.

Nougat isn't a top-down revamp, but it's still a worthy update for the nut- and bolt-tightening and security updates that'll protect your phone from malicious software.

As always, if you've got a Nexus phone or tablet, you get Nougat first. 

Supported devices include: Nexus 6, Nexus 9, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus Player, Pixel C and General Mobile 4G (Android One).

Installing over-the-air (OTA)

To install Nougat, you'll need to sign up for the Android Beta Program. 

Sign in with your Google account and then select your compatible device. Follow the instructions to download the Nougat beta over the air (OTA). Once that's installed you may see a notification to update to the official public stable release of Nougat. 

If you don't see that, you can go to Settings > About phone > System updates to download and install the update.

Not interested in joining the beta? Then you'll have to wait for the update to arrive OTA. It's being pushed out to Nexus devices in waves, so if you don't see it immediately, it may take a few days.

Installing factory images

Alternatively, you can install Nougat by "flashing" your Nexus device with the newest "factory images" available here. 

Warning: This method is a little more advanced and there's a greater possibility of accidentally bricking your Nexus device if you don't follow the directions correctly. Full directions can be found here.