Google released Android 7.0 Nougat back in August, followed by Android 7.1.1 in December. Now, smartphone owners are now wondering when they’ll get Nougat. HTC has been one of the best in terms of keeping users informed, and now we know exactly what to expect regarding HTC Android 7.0 Nougat updates. Here’s everything you need to know.
For several months now many Nexus owners have been testing and enjoying Android N, which is officially Android 7.0 Nougat. It’s loaded with a lot of new features, improved battery life, multi-window mode and more. All things HTC owners should want. Nexus users now have Android 7.1, while all others are waiting for the original Android N release.
The Android N beta ended in August and quickly arrived for many. We’ve since seen betas, developer previews, and two updates. In previous years HTC has promised 90 day update windows. It looks like something similar is in the works in terms of Android 7.0 Nougat. Starting with the HTC One M9, HTC 10 and more.
Popular smartphones from all major manufacturers will see an update to Android 7.0 Nougat in the near future. Or Android 7.1 Nougat. HTC was first to make announcements, but LG and Motorola sent updates out first.
In a surprise move earlier this summer after some Google announcements, HTC confirmed three key HTC Android N software updates are in the pipeline. While only three phones were mentioned, we can expect more to probably get the same new software. Now that Android 7.0 Nougat is official and has been released, they’re ready to share even more details.
HTC Android 7.0 Nougat Updates
We’ve known for a while that HTC is working hard on updates. However, the release date has been a mystery. And while we’re still expecting the HTC One M9 and HTC 10 to be first in the US, unlocked models are getting it first. As expected.
As of December 5th, the day Android 7.1.1 was released, HTC confirmed the One M9 update. Starting with the unlocked edition. Then, carrier models will get the same sometime in 2017. Likely within the next month or two.
Android Nougat will begin rolling out to the unlocked #HTCOneM9 starting late this evening. Carrier variants to follow early next year. pic.twitter.com/O5YP1l2Mdp— HTC USA (@HTCUSA) December 5, 2016
Above is a tweet from HTC USA on December 5th. Confirming Nougat starts right now, and will continue into 2017. That is the only device being mentioned at this time. However, read on for more details about other updates.
The first HTC Android 7.0 Nougat update was the unlocked HTC 10 on November 25th. And now it is time for the HTC One M9 unlocked developer edition. Next we can expect the HTC 10 from carriers and the popular HTC One A9. As a reminder, HTC promised updates within two weeks for the A9, but that no longer appears to be the case.
In closing, the teaser image suggests those will be followed by updates for carrier models, if all goes according to plan. Based on that, those with an HTC 10 or One M9 from carriers in the US probably won’t see Nougat until 2017, but we’ll have to wait and see. It pays off to buy unlocked, and that’s evident by this information right here. Not to mention some are getting the update to kickoff December.
HTC was able to release Android 6.0 Marshmallow within three months last year, but only for select regions outside the United States and unlocked models. Most US carriers ended up waiting around five months, with February and March being the actual arrival. If that’s the case, the HTC 10 and M9 from US carriers may not see it until February. That said, HTC has been getting better and better in recent years. Not to mention the HTC 10 is nearly stock, so the development of Nougat should be faster than ever before.
We’ll keep an eye out for more details, and update once we know more. Either way, the next HTC Android 7.0 Nougat update should arrive the first week of December. However, the wait for carrier models will be at least another month.
What’s New in Android Nougat
Our link at the top of the page is an in-depth look at Android 6.0.1 Marshmallow vs Android 7.0 Nougat, and everything that’s new and different with comparison photos. It goes over many of the key changes, so start there.
As a quick recap, the HTC Android 7.0 update will bring improved performance, better battery life with “Doze” features, split-screen multitasking, the recent apps button works like ALT+TAB and switches between the last used apps, and much more. Google has over 50 big changes in Android N. Like faster app installs, which are also smaller, a new JIT compiler, improved graphics and performance with the Vulkan API, revamped notifications with quick reply from the pulldown bar, customizable quick setting tiles and so much more. All of that and more will complete HTC’s software upgrades.
A huge addition announced back at Google IO was “Android Instant Apps” which will enable Android to install small bits of an app (say, from a search result or web link) and allow one-time instant app usage. No installing an app and starting over. Android just adds what it needs for that moment, uses the app then removes those parts, and we’re done.
Not to mention things like a better and improved Google Now or Search using the Google Assistant with machine learning, number blocking and call screening. That’s just a short list of many changes. Many are behind the scenes.
Of course most of this will come with HTC Sense UI over the top, with additions like HTC Blinkfeed and other small tweaks that each manufacturer adds. Samsung has TouchWiz, HTC uses Sense UI, and LG has their own interface over stock Android as well. Not every new feature will be implemented, others will be changed, but this looks to be one big and exciting update to the Android operating system.
HTC Android 7.0 Nougat Release Date
As of right now it’s far too early to remotely speculate a release date for the HTC Android N update for carrier models. Technically the unlocked One M9 getting it now means they hit the 90 day window and promise. So HTC appears to be on track, and will make further announcements soon.
We’re hopeful the regular HTC 10 and One A9 will follow shortly, but there’s yet to be any official comment. At this time only one update is coming, but we’ll update once we know more.
