We all know that Google has already released the Android 7.0 Nougat update for a bunch of its very own handsets, but what about smartphones from different hardware manufacturers? We know that Motorola is also gearing up for a Nougat release across its range of smartphones, and here we are with word that the OnePlus 3 and OnePlus 3T handsets have started to enjoy beta testing of the Android 7.0 Nougat update. In all probability, the real deal is all set to be released some time next month, so we will simply have to remain cool and calm while waiting for that to happen.

OnePlus is a smartphone manufacturer that hails from China, and they have certainly made waves a few years ago with their self-named OnePlus handset, followed by the OnePlus 2 which was dubbed to be the “flagship killer”. Of course, while the OnePlus 2 and subsequently, the OnePlus 3, arrived packed with its fair share of hardware specifications that were impressive, they were never really able or positioned to dislodge the likes of the iPhone and the latest Samsung Galaxy S series model. It would be best to classify OnePlus handsets as devices that offered plenty of value for your money, as it straddles the upper mid-range class of smartphones.

The OnePlus 3 did not really gain much traction among the masses either when it was released. It is not surprising then, to see that the OnePlus 3T has been launched afterwards after the OnePlus 3 was discontinued in certain markets like in the US. Regardless of whether you are rocking to the OnePlus 3 or the OnePlus 3T when it arrives, it is said that both of these smartphones will be on the receiving end of the Android 7.0 Nougat update before 2016 comes to a close -- and we sure hope that this will happen before Christmas for some much needed Christmas cheer.

The Android 7.0 Nougat update for the OnePlus 3T and OnePlus 3 is tipped for a December roll out, with OnePlus having sent out beta software to the OnePlus 3. The OnePlus 3T will be released tomorrow on November 22nd, which would mean that it will pick up the beta software some time down the road.

Just a side note -- OnePlus has its very own Android-based OxygenOS that runs on its devices, just like how Xiaomi’s handsets run on MIUI. This custom ROM will feature stock Android alongside a bunch of extra features that ought to keep users happy.

As for the OnePlus 3T, just what kind of hardware specifications can we expect? For starters, there will be a 5.5-inch Full HD display, a Qualcomm Snapdragon 821 processor, a whopping 6GB of RAM, a choice between 64GB or 128GB of internal storage, a 16-megapixel rear shooter with a similarly specced front-facing camera, USB Type-C to keep up with the times, and a 3,400mAh battery that keeps it chugging all day long. Arriving in Gunmetal and Soft Gold color options, it will no doubt have Android 6.0 Marshmallow running under the OxygenOS skin. Expect the OnePlus 3T to retail for $439 and $479, for the 64GB and 128GB models, respectively.