Google has released Android 7.0, codenamed Nougat. The new mobile operating system allows, among other, two apps to be run on the same screen at once, and makes it possible for devices to handle more complex 3D graphics. For now, only Nexus-branded handsets and tablets can get the update. The Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Nexus Player, Pixel C and General Mobile 4G (Android One) will get an over the air software update to Android 7.0 Nougat.

Google says a forthcoming phone from LG (LG V20) will also have the software pre-installed. But other device owners will have to wait for manufacturers to carry out their own checks before they make it possible to install the code.

About Nougat

There are over 250 major features in Android Nougat. With the new mobile OS, you’ll have even more ways to make your phone your own, including:

• Expanded emoji: There are now over 1,500 different emoji built into Android, including 72 new ones
• Quick Settings controls: Quick Settings gives you easy access to things like bluetooth, WiFi and the all-important flashlight. With Android Nougat, you can actually control what tiles go where, and move ‘em around to fit your needs.
• Multi-locale support: Apps can tailor their content based on your locale settings. So if you speak multiple languages, for instance, then search engines can show results in each of those languages.

Whether you’re responding to work emails or making plans with friends, Android Nougat helps you multitask with ease with new features like Multi-window, Direct reply, and Quick switch.

• Multi-window: Run two apps side-by-side. The windows are resizable, too, by simply dragging the divider.
• Direct Reply: Reply directly to notifications without having to open any app.
• Quick Switch: Switch between your two most recently used apps by simply double tapping the Overview button.

Starting with the release of Android Marshmallow last year, Google has been making the battery smarter. That’s why they made the Doze feature even dozier with Android Nougat. Your device can now drop into lower power usage when it’s getting jostled around in your pocket or bag while on the move.

Nougat also supports Vulkan (an advanced 3D rendering API) and Daydream (Google’s platform for mobile virtual reality).

• Vulkan: Games will now leap to life thanks to high-speed, next-generation graphics — all powered by your device’s multi-core processor.
• Daydream: Android Nougat is ready to transport you to virtual worlds with Daydream-ready phones, headsets and controllers - all coming later this year.

Android is built with powerful layers of security and encryption to keep your private data private. For new devices coming this fall, Google has also added new features like Seamless updates, File-based encryption and and Direct Boot.

• Seamless updates: New Android devices with Nougat can install software updates in the background which means you won't have to wait while your device installs the update and optimizes all your apps for the new version. And for current Nexus users, software updates now install much faster, so you won't have to wait for minutes while your device reboots.
• File-based encryption: Android Nougat can better isolate and protect files for individual users on your device.
• Direct Boot: Direct Boot helps your device startup faster, and apps run securely even before you unlock your device when your device reboots.

And for those of you who also want to use your Android device at work, there are also new security features for using Android in enterprise.