It is now obvious that the Google Pixel and Pixel XL will be receiving a bunch of new exclusive features thanks to Android 7.1 Nougat. However, given that it is Android OS in question here, quite a good number of these features are already being used on devices that are powered by Android Marshmallow.
So, if you are not a fan of the new Google Pixel phones, you still have a way of getting the features exclusive to the devices to your old Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X or even the older Nexus 6. Keep in mind that not all Android 7.1 Nougat features are available for your Nexus phones, but at least most of them can now be installed and used on these phones, albeit with some stability issues.
Google Camera
The Google Camera v4.2 was recently made available for the Google Nexus 6P and Nexus 5X running on Android 7.0 Nougat. This doesn’t mean those using Android Marshmallow cannot get the Camera app, but it means only those using the two Google phones from 2015 can get the new app on their phones. The app can be downloaded from the official XDA Developers forum, including more details on what it brings.
Pixel Launcher
As the name suggests, the Pixel Launcher is meant for the Google Pixel and Pixel XL. However, the app has made its way to the Google Play Store, but this doesn’t mean other users using Android 7.0 Nougat or Marshmallow can also get it installed on their devices from the same platform, instead, the app has to be sideloaded.
Pixel Dialer
The Pixel Dialer is exclusive to the Google Pixel and Pixel XL phones. Unlike other cases that might call for rooting, the Pixel Dialer app is very simple to install. As long as Android Marshmallow or a later version is installed, you can get the APK file from the official XDA Developers forum. Also, make sure that you set the Dialer as the default calling app via the Apps Settings for it to work properly.
Google Assistant
Another major addition to the Google Pixel and Pixel XL is the AI-based Google Assistant. If anything, this feature is one of the main reasons why many will be buying the Pixel phones. However, you can also get this Assistant to work on your Nexus 6P, Nexus 5X or even Nexus 6, however, this involves a more complex process of rooting the device.
“if you are not a fan of the new Google Pixel phones”
Yes, yes this is the only reason why someone might not rush out and spend the $800 or so literally everyone has just lying to hand
albeit with some stability issues. Code for it might brick your phone.
Can I install Android 7.1 in my lg Nexus 5 model
Plz help.
Anything about the fingerprint sensor movements to open / close the notification tray? Thought it was included in 7.1 but apparently it’s something only Pixels have for the time being. Any way to circumvent this?