Samsung’s Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge get Android Nougat through beta program

The Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 Edge are finally getting the Android Nougat treatment, kind of. Samsung announced that users can access Google’s latest software update via the Galaxy Beta Program. It gives us hope that the full version of the operating system is coming soon. Aside from being limited to beta users, it is currently only available to users in the US, UK, Korea, and soon China.

If you’re in any of these countries you can apply for the program by downloading the Galaxy Beta Program app or the Samsung Members app. The program is on a first-come, first-served basis and spots are reportedly running out so it might be best to apply as soon as you can.

Source: CNET

These are the Daydream VR hardware requirements

If you’re curious what kinds of phone will work with Google’s Daydream VR experience, Google released the Android 7.0 Compatibility Definition Document that shows in detail the criteria phones must meet to run in “high performance” VR mode.

And while the documents outline the exact numbers involving display latency, video capabilities, and OpenGL features, Android Central outlined the basic specs you will see: Bluetooth 4.2 LE, displays between 4.7 and 6 inches, at least 1080p @ 60Hz resolution display with 3ms or less latency and 5ms or less persistence (with Quad HD or higher recommended), OpenGL ES 3.2 and Vulkan, capable of decoding two instances of 60fps video simultaneously, consistent 60fps rendering, and temperature sensors capable of reading device surface temperature. At the moment only the Google Pixel and Pixel XL are considered Daydream-ready but we are expecting more devices from other Android manufacturers soon.

Public beta version of Android 7.1 to come to some Nexus devices

Nexus 6P, 5X and Pixel C users are in for a treat. The first public beta version Android Nougat or Android 7.1 is coming this month. Nexus users won’t be the only ones to get the first and latest Android updates (especially built-in features to the new Pixel devices such as Google Assistant, Pixel Camera, Pixel Launcher, and 24/7 customer support) but they do get new features such as Night Light and Daydream VR support. Night Light is Android’s answer to Night Shift in iOS. Another one of the new features include the ability for developers to add “app shortcuts” to their Android apps. Google won’t say yet when the widespread release of Android 7.1 will be but those in the beta program don’t have to wait that much longer. You can sign up for the program here.

Source: The Verge

LG unveils V20, company’s first Android Nougat-powered smartphone

Don’t have a Nexus and want to get your hands on an Android 7.0 Nougat device already? LG just unveiled the V20, the V10’s successor. It’s the first device outside of Google’s Nexus devices to get the latest Android operating system.

Instead of maintaining its distinct look with a rugged, grippy back and stainless steel sides, the V20 looks rather similar to the G5 with its smooth aluminum surface. But this phone doesn’t carry LG’s interpretation of modular smartphones. The good thing though is you can still swap out the 3,200mAh battery and the phone is supposedly sturdy having been rated MIL-STD 810G for drop and shock resistance. Don’t take it swimming with you, though, as the phone isn’t water resistant.

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