Android Nougat 7.0 release date: New platform rolls out to the Nexus 6

The Google Nexus 6. After delays, the new Android Nougat 7.0 platform is already live for the older-gen Nexus flagship.Google website

Google has started the rollout of the new Android Nougat platform for some time now, although most of the Nexus devices have yet to receive their update. Finally, though, the 7.0 version has been released for the Nexus 6.

Aside from releasing the update, the new Android 7.0 version also has its factory and OTA images already uploaded on the Google Developer website. This means Nexus 6 owners who have yet to receive an update notification can download the OTA images and upload it to their devices for a manual update. The factory images, on the other hand, are also manual uploads, although the files are for the more tech-savvy Nexus 6 owners who want to further customize the new Android 7.0 Nougat platform.

The Android 7.0 version update is welcome news to Nexus 6 owners. The device, along with the Nexus 9 LTE, were late additions to the Android Nougat update list. What caused the delay is unclear. According to Phone Arena, speculations suggest that update issues include battery drain on the two devices. With the new platform now rolling out, however, it is likely that whatever issues that plagued earlier tests have been resolved.

As for the OTA update, the new Android 7.0 download comes in at 860 MB for the Nexus 6. Surprisingly, the update already comes with the newest Oct. 5 security patch by Google. After the update finishes, the build number for the device is updated to NBD90Z.

Meanwhile, with the Android Nougat 7.0 update being completed for Nexus lineups, it is expected that the new platform will roll out for third-party devices soon. It is likely that some recent flagships from Samsung, HTC, and smartphone manufacturers will receive the Android Nougat update in the weeks to come. A non-Nexus flagship, the LG V20, has already been released with Android Nougat 7.0 onboard.