It was not too long ago -- in fact, it was just last month that Google made an official introduction to Android 7.1 Nougat. The naming convention of this particular Nougat update would no doubt point to the next step forward for Nougat, and we are pleased to say that Android 7.1 Nougat had already been running on the Google Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones, as well as different handsets through the back door of developer previews. How about mainstream Android-powered smartphones then? It is nice to know that Google did mention December as part of the rollout schedule for Android 7.1 Nougat to other Google devices, and this would include the Nexus range. December 6th is the confirmed scheduled release date. Hence, if you happen to be rocking to the likes of the Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Pixel C, Nexus 9 and Android One devices, then you would be pleased as punch to know that Android 7.1 Nougat is well on its way, with just a week more of waiting before your mobile operating system version gets bumped up to be on par with that of the latest Google Pixel and Pixel XL handsets.

Basically, the consumer release for Android 7.1.1 Nougat has been tipped for a December 6 rollout as well, at least this is what Vodafone Australia claims. This particular mobile operating system update will tip the scales at 650MB thereabouts, and it will be released in line with the security patch for December. The moment it is released, this particular software update will then place the Nexus 5X, 6P, Pixel C and Nexus 9 to be level with the latest generation Google handsets.

What will Android 7.1 Nougat bring to the table? For starters, all of the standard updates and features that are found in Android 7.0 Nougat will also make its way over to Android 7.1.1 without losing anything. In fact, it will open up the doors for developers to introduce app shortcuts, which is similar to what appears whenever an app is pressed via 3D Touch on the more recent iPhone offerings from Apple. This would certainly place Android in good stead for future flagship smartphones that might want to take a leaf out of Apple’s book in this user interface regard.

Another thing about Android 7.1 Nougat would be the introduction of data saving capability that helps to free up more space. There will also be Google Assistant as well as image keyboard support for cool looking GIFs coupled with rich content. According to Vodafone Australia, this particular update is set to arrive from 5 p.m. AEST on December 6 onward, although the security patch will be introduced one day earlier in order to keep to the already established pattern by Google when it comes to introducing security patches on a Monday.

You might want to be patient though, since it can take up to a fortnight for your supported device to pick up the Android 7.1 Nougat update.