Android 7.1 Nougat review: What's new

It's been a while since the Nougat 7.0 dropped, but a new update just landed (Nougat 7.1) and it's first released on the google pixel and Nexus smart phones.While the pre-Pixel version of Nougat was a fairly subtle update from Android Marshmallow, when it comes to noticeable user interface changes, Android 7.1 changes a lot.

RELEASE DATE

If you want the latest and greatest Google and Android have to offer, you've got two or slightly more options. One is ordering a Pixel or Pixel XL . The other involves buying a supported Nexus device: the Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, and Nexus 9. All receive the update to Android 7.1.1 beginning December 5.

WHAT'S NEW

The Android 7.1 Nougat changed a lot but these are the sweetest and most interesting

•New round icons
•Snappy quick-action shortcuts
•Notification redesign and quick reply
•Settings menu revamped

Unlike Android 7.0 Nougat, 7.1 has introduced a notable visual change to the operating system, meaning there's definitely enough to please those who like new things.The most interesting change in design is in seen on the Pixel’s home screen, which is now littered with round icons, not square or freeform ones.

The Nougat 7.1 icons are now round and are uniformly arranged, you don't need to download nova launcher or any other any more.

Another improvement is that App Shortcuts are back. The feature, briefly introduced during the Android Nougat beta program, was briefly scrapped, but it's returned in fully functional form. App Shortcuts mimic the 3D Touch features introduced in iOS 9 -- press and hold an app icon and you'll get a list of specific actions. The Pixel Launcher, the default home screen on Pixel smartphones, supports the feature, and third-party app developers will be able tap in on smartphones running Android 7.1.1. Apps can have up to five shortcuts, according to the Android Developers website.

The Settings screen has had a bit of a makeover too. As a Google Pixel owner, your settings menu is split in two. The right side is a dedicated hub for device support. You can call or chat with a dedicated support team if you're needing help with your phone.With its smart suggestions at the top of the main settings menu list, it's easy to see when you have features like Do Not Disturb or Data Saver switched on.

For the first time it also has a sidebar menu for when you've gone to a secondary settings screen but want to quickly jump to another main category.Dig into the settings and you'll find another new addition: the ability to adjust the size of content on the screen. The display size option in the display settings menu has a slider which adjusts the size of everything you see on screen.