After announcing that the updated Android 7.1.2 Nougat beta is on its way, Google has finally made the software available to the public.
This is not the first time we’ve seen Google pushing out early software builds to select devices for testing purposes, with the intention being to collect enough feedback that helps improve the experience and stability of the software.
As noted, the beta version of this OS will be available to select users. Those who have already registered to be part of the public beta will be able to receive this unfinished version of the OS on their devices. According to Google, the devices covered include the new Pixel and Pixel XL phones, 2015’s Huawei Nexus 6P and LG Nexus 5X as well as the Nexus Player.
There is nothing to worry about if you aren’t part of the Android Beta Program that will be receiving this Android 7.1.2 beta. Now that the public testing is on, it means that the stable release should be happening in a few months’ time, probably two, but it could even be more. Why the guesses? Apparently, Google knows more than anyone else how tough it can become with giving definite dates for software updates. Hence, it hasn’t given out any date that the stable version will be here.
Looking at the previous Android software updates, it seems the update from Android 7.1.1 Nougat to the new Android 7.1.2 Nougat won’t be a major one. With this in mind, you shouldn’t expect to see wholesale changes to what you already have, at least for those using any of the aforementioned Google devices. This update is probably meant to make things straighter – optimize performance, fix bugs and enhance the user experience, among others. Even though Google notes that the new Android 7.1.2 Nougat will also include a bunch of enhancements for carriers and users, it doesn’t go into specifics of these enhancements.
If you are not part of the Android Beta Program, it is easy to sign up. When done, Google will include you in the list of devices that will be receiving the beta update in the coming days.