Today Google rolled out Android 7.1.1, an update to Nougat that gives you more ways to express yourself (along with the usual bug fixes and stability improvements.
The first thing to note is that the update brings a new set of emojis that represent females in the various jobs and roles they play worldwide. This is part of Google’s effort to promote gender equality. It even features an emoji of a man getting a haircut.
Necessary? No. But when it comes to emojis, more is always better.
And if you’re looking for more ways to express yourself, you also can now send GIFs directly from your keyboard on supported apps such as Google Allo, Google Messenger and Hangouts.
And for everyone looking for just one more way to make life easier, Android 7.1.1 brings you app shortcuts directly from your home screen. Launch actions on your favorite apps, such as Twitter or Google Maps, by simply long pressing the app icon. Jump directly into an existing conversation on Google Messenger or start an entirely new one – all straight from the app icon.
Today, and over the next several weeks, the Nexus 6, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 9, Pixel, Pixel XL, Nexus Player, Pixel C and General Mobile 4G (Android One) will get an over the air (OTA) software update to Android 7.1.1 Nougat. Any devices enrolled in the Android Beta Program will also receive this final version.
