Android 7.0 Nougat is a major software update in the Android fraternity and not so many are expecting it to hit their devices anytime soon, especially if their devices have a release date of more than two years.
The OS is currently running on the Google Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X and Nexus 6 among other Google-owned mobile devices. It also comes preinstalled on the LG V20 as well as the Google Pixel and Pixel XL, but the latter devices have the latest version 7.1 installed. The likes of Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S6 are among those guaranteed the update, which is just a matter of when the update will be ready.
As for the like of Samsung Galaxy S5 and Galaxy S4, the story is quite different. In fact, it gets even worse for the Galaxy S4 which has now clocked over three years since it was released. Now running on Android Lollipop, those using this device may get lucky thanks to some genius custom ROM developers that have successfully ported the new Android 7.0 Nougat to this old flagship.
Apparently, the hack is working on Samsung Galaxy S4 units with model number GT-I9505. With the help of a crDroid custom ROM, you can now have Android 7.0 Nougat installed on your Galaxy S4. With the Nougat update, the device has received features such as Blacklist, Omni-Ambient Display, Swipe behavior, sound options on power menu, Superuser indicator and many others.
Keep in mind that this is a third-party hack and Samsung isn’t aware of, so, proceeding with it is entirely at your own risk. Still, if you love tweaking the experience of your Android device and having it your way, this is one chance you can’t pass on. But as usual, installing a custom ROM will only work with rooted devices. It is also advisable that a custom recovery tool is installed so as to flash the Android 7.0 Nougat firmware on the Galaxy S4. This tool also helps with creating data backups, just in case something goes wrong.
Just like with any other major software update, make sure you have enough battery juice before proceeding with flashing this Android 7.0 Nougat custom ROM on your Galaxy S4. The necessary files and more details can be found at Team Android, but keep in mind that it only works with Samsung Galaxy S4 LTE I9505.