Google Nexus 2016 Rumors: Device May Include a Pressure-Sensitive Screen

With Android N developer preview now in its second stage, rumors have been rife that the Google Nexus 2016 will soon be released.

There are even reports suggesting that the new Nexus will be unveiled during next month’s Google I/O developer conference. However, this has not been confirmed by Google. However, what can be guaranteed is that the new device will launch with Google’s new OS unless the company decides to stray away from its traditional unveiling of a new device with a new OS. Last year’s Nexus was announced together with Android M, so, we expect the same to happen this year.

Google Nexus 2016 to run on Android N out of the box

Even though the search engine giant has not mentioned a thing about what feature the Google Nexus 2016 will come with, the fact that the device will be powered by the latest Android N gives us some hints about what to expect. In the latest Android N developer preview, one feature that has captured the attention of many is the new support for Launcher shortcuts. With this feature, it means that the new operating system will come with an integrated pressure-sensitive feature. According to Google, the inclusion of this 3D Touch-like feature in Android N comes at the request of OEMs.

The fact that Android N will come with support for pressure-sensitive screens is a huge indicator that Google Nexus 2016 will also come packed with this ability. This means that users will be able to make use of pop-up menus that help them easily and quickly perform certain tasks.

Other possible features

Last year’s Nexus 6P was actually Google’s flagship smartphone as it was packed with 2015’s flagship hardware and specs. Given that the Google Nexus 2016 is the possible successor to this device, reports claim that this year’s flagship hardware and specs may feature on the soon-to-be-released phone.

This means that a Snapdragon 820 SoC and 4GB RAM are in the mix. There are also reports adding that the device will feature 32GB and 64GB variants and unlike last year’s flagship, this year’s version might offer only 5.1 inches of display. The storage will be expandable using a microSD card of up to 2TB while the battery capacity will stand at 3000mAh.

While last year’s Nexus 6P was developed by Huawei, rumors have it that this year’s version will be handled by HTC. However, with last year’s flagship proving to be a major hit among Nexus enthusiasts, it is hard to write off Huawei as far as the Google Nexus 2016 is concerned.

Other expected specs include a 12MP rear snapper alongside a 5MP selfie sensor, just like last year’s flagship. With the HTC 10 coming with OIS in its selfie cam, we might possibly see this feature appear on this year’s Nexus. However, this is only if HTC lands the deal to make the phone.

If all goes well, we might get to know more about the new Google Nexus 2016 at the Google I/O developer conference to be held beginning May 18.