New emojis, GIF support in apps, as well as app shortcuts

Dec 6, 2016 14:25 GMT  ·  By

If you don't own a Pixel smartphone or a rather new Nexus device, chances are you won't be getting the new Android 7.1.1 Nougat update on your handset until next year.

Google has just announced that the new update is now being rolled out to the Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Pixel, Pixel XL, Nexus Player, Pixel C and General Mobile 4G (Android One).

Moreover, the search giant has confirmed that all devices enrolled in the Android Beta Program will also get the update via OTA (over the air).

However, for those who own a supported Nexus device, here is what you'll get in the Android 7.1.1 Nougat.

Before getting into more details, it's worth noting that most of these new features and improvements are already available for the Pixel and Pixel XL since they come with Android 7.1 Nougat on board.

Few new features for Pixel owners

Ok, so first of all, there is a new set of emojis that includes gender counterparts for emojis that previously only had male or female representation. Basically, you're getting welders and men with haircuts.

Furthermore, the update brings support for GIFs, which means that you will be able to send this type of files using supported apps like Google Allo, Google Messenger, and Hangouts.

Android 7.1.1 Nougat also adds app shortcuts directly from the home screen. Users can now long press icons of supported apps to continue from where they left. For example, they can jump directly into an existing conversation on Messenger, or start a new one.

As mentioned earlier, for the time being, the update is only available for Pixel and Nexus devices and will be rolled out in the next several weeks.

However, if you don't want to wait, you can now download the factory images or OTA files and update manually to the new Android 7.1.1 Nougat.

Android 7.1.1 Nougat new features (3 Images)

Android 7.1.1 Nougat emojis
Image Keyboard Send GIFs directly from your keyboardLaunch actions on your favorite apps by simply long pressing the app icon
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