Android 7.1 is highly anticipated with all the new features it is expected to bring. Although there is one detail that may irk some, if not most, Android users - it is keeping some exciting features exclusive for the Pixel phones.
Among the best features of the Android 7.1 that are exclusive to the Pixel are the Google Assistant, Smart Storage, unlimited photo and video storage and more, as per TechCrunch. This means that those using Samsung Galaxy S7, Sony Xperia XZ and other worthy flagships will be stuck with the less stellar Google Now.
Google Assistant vs Google Now
Google Now is an artificial intelligence (AI) assistant that works like Apple's Siri, CNET reported. It can collect information from the vast world of Google and from the user's Google accounts. The voice-activated assistant can also set alarms, schedule events on the calendar and more. Although it sounds fantastic, it does not compare to Google Assistant.
As of now, the search engine giant's second AI is integrated into the chat app Allo and Google Home, both of which are for everyone. However, Pixel phone users will get a bonus: Google Assistant is also integrated into their phones.
It is far more intelligent than Google Now, which can only pull up search results from Google. The Assistant will present cards that the users can easily tap. Furthermore, it can carry a conversation and not treat each input from the user as a new command, unlike Siri.
Android 7.1 Nougat Pixel-Exclusive Features
Other features exclusive to the Pixel family include the Pixel launcher, built-in customer support, Sensor Hub processor and more. The full list can be seen over at Android Police.
Other Android users will not be left out, however, with Night Light, Daydream VR mode, some performance improvements and a manual storage manager among others. These features will also arrive to the Pixel.
As of now, it is unknown when Android 7.1 will roll out to the public, but it is slated to launch as a Developer Preview late in October.
