What is the maximum Android phone. All Android versions. The new version of Android is the best

The question regarding which Android is better worries every user who goes to the store to buy a new gadget running this operating system.

The OS, whose logo is a green robot, today occupies one of the leading positions on the market, is installed on hundreds of devices, and is constantly improved and updated by developers. And Android receives updates with enviable regularity.

In the first half of 2017, Google announced Android O (8), while its predecessor, Nougat, only managed to cross the 10% mark, and Marshmallow remains the most popular. So is it worth chasing the numbers in the name of the operating system or sticking with the old and proven version? Let's figure it out together.

Android OS: advantages and disadvantages

You've probably noticed that the gadget market today is divided by two operating systems: iOS and Android. The first is the brainchild of Apple, which has a closed source code and is used only on the products of this company. The second is the development of Android, Inc., which was purchased by Google. The main feature is that it is open and free, which is what made it so popular for manufacturers of smartphones, tablets and other devices.

Little-known company Android, Inc. was purchased by the search giant back in 2005. Google planned to create a free, open-source operating system, which it did in the fall of 2007, introducing the first version of the package for developers. Officially, the first version of the system was shown on September 23, 2008, along with the first Android smartphone – HTC Dream. The OS, despite the skepticism of many experts, managed to attract the attention of both ordinary users and equipment manufacturers.

The rapid growth of the mobile operating system began, which was accompanied by the emergence of new versions with various improvements. Android OS in a very short time managed to oust a number of other platforms from the market, sharing a place on Olympus with its main competitor, iOS.

Why is this system so popular?

Firstly, users liked the functionality and openness. Android opened up a lot of possibilities, it allowed us to delve into the file system, install a bunch of applications from different sources, we can even change the appearance of the OS. The operating system, if you put in just a little effort, can change beyond recognition, which is difficult to do on many other mobile operating systems.

We must not forget about custom firmware developed by ordinary users, which are completely capable of turning a “green robot” into something completely different. In addition, the official Android store is simply overwhelmed with thousands of applications and games, many of which are absolutely free (paid ones, by the way, are much cheaper than in the same App Store).

Whatever one may say, Android also has disadvantages.

1. One of the most annoying and hated disadvantages among users is system freezes and lags (although this problem disappears with the release of new improved versions of the OS, and serious errors occur only on very cheap devices).
2. Another weak point of even the best versions of Android is considered to be frequent infections with viruses that can get onto the device even from the official application store.
3. Finally, the disadvantages include the slow updating of devices to more current and better versions. It may take a year before the smartphone receives the latest version. In addition, the overwhelming number of budget/mid-range devices remain without updating to the latest version.

Which version of Android is better: outdated, current and new

Having familiarized ourselves a little with the history, advantages and disadvantages of Android, we move directly to the existing versions of this operating system. To make it easier for you to understand, we will divide the material into several blocks according to the state of Android versions: outdated, current and new. Here we will talk in detail about the features of each version, their advantages, disadvantages, as well as the relevance of use in 2017. Well, in the end, we’ll decide which version of Android is more convenient and better today.

We are telling you about outdated versions of Android for informational purposes. For most users they are no longer able to provide the necessary functionality, and therefore are of interest only to geeks.

Outdated versions of Android

Android is a relatively new operating system, but it can boast of an abundance of versions. Like other well-known systems, it was constantly being improved, new editions were released, and the old ones were gradually forgotten. The same thing happened, for example, with Windows - not many people will remember Windows 95, and XP is gradually being forgotten. Android also has such dinosaur versions, although finding them on devices is not easy. Moreover, they have nothing to surprise today’s user.

Android 1.0 "Apple Pie"

So, the system begins its journey with version 1.0, which was named after apple pie. This is the first stable build, introduced in the fall of 2003. It looks a little different than the latest best versions of Android, but the similarities are undoubtedly visible. Naturally, Android 1.0 was filled with bugs, and many of the usual smartphone functions were not provided at all.

What made version 1.0 stand out:

• a notification system familiar to Android with a drop-down top curtain;
• desktop widgets;
• integration with Gmail services;
• online application store.

It’s clear that Android 1.0 “Apple Pie” is hardly suitable for everyday use: it lacks many “tricks”, it is impossible to install many programs, and a device running “Apple Pie” is quite difficult to find.

Android 1.1 "Banana Bread"

At the beginning of February 2009, Android received a major update that made a number of functions available, although outwardly the system did not change at all. Version 1.1 was available for a single smartphone - T-Mobile G1 (HTC Dream).

Key innovations include:

• voice search Google Voice Search;
• the ability to sell paid applications in the Play Market;
• the function of updating the firmware “over the air” (at the same time the “About phone” item appeared in the settings).

Android 1.1 “Banana Bread” is nothing more than history today, and the HTC Dream, the device that supports it, is a rarity.

Android 1.5 "Cupcake"

“Keks” (the name of the version translated into Russian), released in the spring of 2009, brought a lot of small improvements that partially improved the system by adding new features. Thus, on-screen keyboards appeared, which allowed users not to provide the usual mechanical keys. The first smartphone to try Android 1.5 was again the brainchild of HTC – Magic.

In addition to the on-screen keyboard, the following appeared:

• new icons;
• ability to install third-party keyboards;
• animations when moving from window to window;
• browser changes;
• the ability to publish photos or videos online;
• support for MPEG-4 and 3GP and new Bluetooth profiles.

Like its predecessor, Android 1.5 “Cupcake” is forgotten today, which is understandable.

Android 1.6 "Donut"

Also in 2009, in the fall, Android received a new update, in which special attention was paid to the application store. Its interface was redesigned, errors were eliminated, and application screenshots appeared. Also major innovations were support for CDMA networks and display resolutions over 480x320 pixels, which attracted the attention of new manufacturers to the system.

In addition, Android 1.6 "Donut" boasted:

• improved camera interface and new capabilities for working with photos and videos;
• multilingual voice search;
• significant expansion of search capabilities;
• applications began to work faster;
• the ability to find out which programs are draining your battery.

Android 2.0/2.1 "Eclair"

Not stopping there, already in November 2009 the developers rolled out a new Android 2.0, which can be called breakthrough. It was this version that began to be massively introduced into smartphones of that time and widely distributed throughout the world. In the debate about which version of Android is the most convenient and best, at that time 2.0 definitely won. Smartphones running Android 2.0 really surprised us back then with their capabilities and fairly powerful hardware.

What's new:

• ability to work with multiple Google accounts;
• The camera interface has been updated, effects and flash support have been added;
• the keyboard has become more comfortable;
• updated calendar and graphic architecture;
• support for new display sizes and resolutions;
• improved user interface;
• a lot of other minor improvements.

The new 2010 introduced update 2.1, the main innovations of which were “live” wallpapers and improvements to Google Maps. Based on this version of Android, the famous Nexus One is released, a smartphone that was a desirable acquisition for any geek of those years.

Android 2.2 "Froyo"

In May 2010, the frozen yogurt update was released and first appeared on the Nexus One smartphone. In Android 2.2, attention was paid to optimizing the interface, memory, etc. Now applications began to launch noticeably faster, and Adobe Flash appeared in the Play Market, which made it possible to launch videos and even some Flash games in a standard browser.

The list of innovations in Android 2.2 “Froyo” is quite wide:

• Possibility of Wi-Fi distribution;
• installing applications in extended memory;
• support for ultra-high resolution screens;
• the browser received integration of the V8 JavaScript engine;
• a bunch of small updates.

Google subsequently released several security updates to Android 2.2 “Froyo”, after which it introduced a new version of the OS.

Android 2.3 "Gingerbread"

One of the most famous, innovative and best versions of Android, which is still found on many devices. It was presented in December 2010, and received many subsequent updates that added something new to the system. There really were a lot of changes, which allowed Android 2.3 “Gingerbread” to receive a lot of positive ratings. Firstly, the system has changed slightly in appearance - it has become darker and more elegant. Secondly, there is support for even clearer displays, as well as audio and video codecs. In addition, the new version received:

• support for more sensors (barometers, gyroscopes);
• redesigned keyboard;
• the ability to clear memory of garbage;
• more energy efficient use of battery.

Android 2.3 is rightfully considered one of the best and most convenient versions of the OS (for 2010-2011 - the best). Even today it is not difficult to find a device that will work under the control of “gingerbread”, but its purchase does not seem entirely advisable.

Android 3.0/3.1/3.2 "Honeycomb"

Already in February 2011, Google introduced another version of Android, although it was developed exclusively for tablets. The update contained many innovations that made using tablets more comfortable. For example, the user mode has been optimized, support for multi-core processors has appeared, and multitasking has been improved.

The list of innovations with subsequent additions looks impressive:

• support for hardware acceleration appeared;
• support for peripheral devices;
• optimized work on different devices;
• improving stability and security;
• Auto-updates appeared in Android Market;
• Improved support for Adobe Flash.

Android “Honeycomb” was full of various innovations, but Google decided to continue to present universal OS that will work on both tablets and smartphones.

Android 4.0 "Ice Cream Sandwich"

“Waffle Ice Cream” was announced in May 2011, and in the fall the version was already officially presented. Android 4.0 was the first version of Google's OS that supported work with tablets and smartphones. It brought a lot of useful improvements and was very popular with users, although at the start it had a lot of bugs and operational problems.

The list of innovations is quite long:

• The notification panel has changed;
• improved multitasking;
• The lock screen has been changed, shortcuts have appeared for quick access to phone functions;
• typing has become more comfortable, spell checking has become more stable;
• The camera now has more capabilities;
• Screenshots can be taken programmatically;
• subsequent bug fixes and security updates.

Android 4.0 turned out to be innovative and quite convenient. Today the OS version is seriously outdated, although about 1% of devices still run 4.0.

Android 4.1/4.2/4.3 "Jelly Bean"

At the end of June 2012, an updated version of Android was presented, which remained virtually unchanged in terms of interface design, but received a lot of improvements at the hardware level. The improvements ensured smoother operation of the interface, faster launch of games and applications, and a minimum of bugs. The best version of Android at that time received:

• new keyboard with gesture support;
• support for multiple profiles on one device;
• Miracast technology, which allows you to transfer videos and photos to your TV wirelessly;
• quick settings menu in the notification panel;
• camera interface update.

In the fall, a convenient version of Android 4.2 was presented with minor improvements, and in the summer of 2013, version 4.3 was released to the public, which brought new updates and fixes to the operating system.

Today, Jelly Candy still has a decent amount of market share and can still be used, but more and more app developers are dropping support for it.

Android 4.4 "KitKat"

The KitKat version, despite being introduced back in 2013, is still very common. Currently, the share of Android 4.4 is slightly more than 18% (the latest Nougat, for a moment, has a share of no more than 10%). Until recently, KitKat was installed on the vast majority of budget devices and has repeatedly received the title of the best version of Android. The secret of success on cheap devices lay in excellent optimization, which is why today many users prefer KitKat.

What did the version bring:

• Google Now voice assistant;
• optimized memory allocation;
• faster application launch;
• support for wireless printers;
• “remote control” appeared;
• switching launchers in device settings;
• The security system has been improved and minor bugs have been fixed.

Be that as it may, the share of Android 4.4 “KitKat” is declining quite quickly, and gadget manufacturers are giving preference to newer versions of the OS. Therefore, we will write down the beloved version as outdated and move on to the current ones.

Current versions of Android

Outdated versions of Android, despite the affection of many users, are seriously inferior to current ones, which boast a wider range of functions and regular updates. In addition, the current versions of Android can be called the best due to the minimum number of problems and mass distribution on the market.

Android 5.0/5.1 "Lollipop"

One of the best and most popular versions of Android so far. Introduced in the fall of 2014, the OS from Google won the hearts of many users, and manufacturers of smartphones and other devices liked the new product. Lollipop stood out with its updated interface, which the developers called Material design - working with devices became easier, more pleasant and more comfortable. Attention was also paid to autonomy, thanks to which.

In addition, Android Lollipop brought:

• improved notification system;
• the ability to encrypt user data;
• redesigned automatic screen adjustment mode;
• setting up alerts;
• new animations;
• a lot of subsequent minor updates that made the system more stable and secure.

The Android Lollipop version can still be considered the best today, because in terms of prevalence it is second only to Marshmallow - 31% versus 22%. A huge number of smartphones running this OS version are still on sale and they definitely deserve attention.

Android 6.0 “Marshmallow” – the most stable Android today?

Android 6.0, introduced in May 2015, remains the most popular version of Google's OS to this day. And, apparently, he is not going to give up his position in the near future. Many budget devices, despite Nougat, receive Marshmallow, which is polished by the developers and is practically not inferior to the newer version. Externally, not everyone will be able to distinguish this version from its predecessor - the same Material design with similar icons has been preserved. However, the functionality has expanded with new interesting features.

• Now Android devices can be unlocked using a fingerprint scanner;
• natively supports 2 SIM cards;
• it became possible to control application access to personal data;
• multi-window mode has been introduced;
• added Android Pay application for electronic payments;
• Some new animations and updates for stable system operation.

Overall, Marshmallow is a modified Lollipop. Version Android 6.0 is really convenient, has all the functions that a modern user needs and is also the most common. Marshmallow will be relevant for at least another year.

New versions of Android

It is the newest versions of operating systems that attract the majority of users, which is not surprising. The updated OS, although slightly, is improved compared to its predecessors, boasts better developer support and regular updates.

Android 7.0 / 7.1 / 7.1.1 / 7.1.2 "Nougat"

This is the newest version of Android today. It was introduced in August 2016, but so far has not been able to conquer the market among Android devices. Visually, Nougat is noticeably different from its predecessors, and it is not without new functions.

The most noticeable changes in Android 7.0:

• it became possible to split the screen into two halves;
• now all running applications are deleted from memory using one button;
• The notification system has been improved, a quick response function has appeared;
• night mode, which allows you to achieve a level of contrast that is comfortable for the eyes;
• improved energy saving mode;
• redesigned folder design;
• new emoticons;
• picture-in-picture mode;
• Full hardware support for virtual reality has been added.

It seems that the capabilities are not the most important, but the system has noticeably improved. In the future, three quite significant updates will be released - 7.1, 7.1.1 and 7.1.2. The first update introduced the Daydream VR mode. A notable innovation in 7.1.1 was round application icons. Well, the latest update 7.1.2 brought improved encryption capabilities and corrections of minor errors.

According to many users, Android “Nougat” has become the best and most convenient version of Google’s mobile OS. Nougat looks stylish and modern, supports many useful functions and will be relevant for many years to come.

Android 8.0 "O..."

This fall, Google released a beta version of the future Android 8.0 for select smartphones, which will apparently be named after the Oreo liver. The official release of Android O, according to a number of sources, is scheduled for early autumn 2017. True, most users will be able to try out the coveted new product no earlier than the first quarter of 2018.

It’s too early to talk about all the innovations of the future version, but some details are already known:

• notifications will be improved;
• An event counter will appear on the application icons;
• dynamic icons will appear;
• minor interface updates.

Well, all that remains is to wait for autumn.

Is the new version of Android the best?

Not really. Getting acquainted with the new version of Android every year, which was supposed to be the best, experienced users decided that:

Updates bring not only improvements, but also bugs.

It often takes developers months to fix all the problems, and during this time, as a rule, the next version is announced. That is, the user receives a perfectly polished system closer to the presentation of the new version. Therefore, many people prefer to “sit” for an extra month on an older, but more convenient version of Android, rather than put up with the bugs of the new product.

However, you should not rush from one extreme to another and remain faithful to long-outdated versions. In addition to poor functionality, older operating systems are more susceptible to virus attacks and are unable to protect 100% user data from intruders.

Based on this, we can conclude that in the near future the best choice remains Android versions Marshmallow and Nougat. By purchasing a device running Android 7.0, you'll get the most up-to-date features, and many devices running Marshmallow are likely to receive an update to the next version. If you like a smartphone running Android Lollipop, then it’s better to find out in advance whether it will receive an update to at least 6.0.

Conclusion: do not chase the latest version of Android

In today’s rather extensive material, we tried to tell you about the most important features of each version of the Android OS, as well as answer the question of which one is the most convenient and best. Google's operating system does not stand still, bringing something new with every update. However, it is difficult to keep up with each new version of the OS, and there is no particular point in this - solutions from two years ago still cope with their tasks perfectly. We hope our article will help you understand all the nuances of each version of Android and decide which is the best.

And a new version of this operating system is just around the corner. Let's take a look at what we know about Android 9.0 so far.

What “tasty” name can Android 9.0 get?

From the early days, all updates to the Android operating system were named after sweets and in alphabetical order.

So far we have seen:

Android Donut (v1.6)

Android Eclair (v2.0)

Android Froyo (v2.2)

Android Gingerbread (v2.3)

Android Honeycomb (v3.0)

Android Ice Cream Sandwich(v4.0)

Android Jelly Bean (v4.1)

Android KitKat (V4.4)

Android Lollipop (v5.0)

Android Marshmallow (v6.0)

Android Nougat (v7.0)

Android Oreo (v8.0)

We should see the launch of Android 9.0 or Android P in 2018. The name won't be announced until the summer, but that doesn't stop us from trying to guess what the name will be.

But there is no guarantee that your device will definitely be updated to Android 9.0, as usual. Device fragmentation is still a problem for the operating system. Even in the latest update of statistics on the use of Android versions on January 8, there were still devices running version 2.3.3 of Gingerbread.

What new features will be in Android 9.0?

So far, there have been very few rumors about what we can expect from Android P, except that, as speculated in the XDA Developers community, Google will remove access to unofficial APIs (which are not part of the official SDK). This news may upset some developers.

Other changes we expect to see in the upcoming update, according to rumors circulating on enthusiast sites, include support for Wi-Fi Direct Printing and Bluetooth hearing aids, as well as better integration with Google's IoT platform.

Things we'd also like to see in Android 9.0 include faster deployment of the OS itself, as well as reduced device fragmentation. We're also looking forward to improved picture-in-picture support, as well as further improvements to battery life and performance.

What would you like to see in Android P? Tell us about it in the comments.

In our age, it will be quite difficult to imagine yourself even for a day without a phone or tablet with Internet access. For many, these devices are just an accessory, a means of communication, a gaming device, and for others, they are an indispensable assistant in their work. Whatever purpose the gadget is used for, its software must be the latest.

There are many operating systems for phones and tablets, but the most popular is Android. Due to the fact that it has a user-friendly interface and stable operation, this OS is installed on almost all recently released devices. Android updates occur periodically, eliminating system problems and errors and adding new functions. During the existence of the OS, at least 10 versions were released. We will look at the main ones today, including the latest version of Android.

Android 4.1, 4.2 and 4.3 (Jelly Bean)

These versions of the operating system are not much different. All of them are modified Android 4.0. In the updates, the developers slightly optimized the interface, made transitions even smoother, eliminating jerks when switching between desktops of a phone or tablet.

The visual design of the system has also undergone minor changes. A quick settings button has been added, which is located in the notification panel. The developers have also introduced support for multiple profiles on the device.

The full version of Android, numbered 4.3.x, is still used on some devices and is completely up to date.

Android 4.4 (KitKat)

This version was aimed at improving the performance of the operating system and adapting it to low-cost smartphones and tablets. The functioning of RAM has also been improved.

For the first time, the developers have built in a remote OS control service and a “smart” caller ID.

Android 5.0 and 5.1 (Lollipop)

In this version of Android, most of the changes were in the visual design. All components of the design were highlighted with shadows, which gave them volume and detail.

A multi-user mode has been added that helps multiple users control a phone or tablet. With this version of Android, it became possible to use a 64-bit processor and the latest version of Bluetooth version 4.1 on the device.

The gadget's battery discharges a little slower due to greater optimization of its operation.

Android 6 (Marshmallow)

This is one of the latest versions of this operating system, which was released in May 2015. With this update came a lot of both internal and external changes.

For example, the ability to lock the gadget using a fingerprint was introduced, and blocking through facial recognition was improved. Also among the innovations is the addition of the ability to make instant payments using the new Android Pay system.

Android 7 (Nougat)

In the latest version of Android, users were treated to an innovation that allowed them to use two applications at once on two halves of the display.

Options have been added that make using the operating system more convenient. These include:

• "Clear all" button in background processes.
• Improved notification system.
• Compact panel with quick access icon.

Which version of Android is suitable?

At first glance, the answer to this question is obvious. You need to choose only the latest version of the operating system, since it will eliminate all the errors of the previous ones and add new functions. But remember that the latest version of Android may not be suitable for your device if it does not have the required capabilities.

For example, a phone called HTC One S has version 4.2 and it will be impossible to update the system to 6.0, since a processor with two cores and a frequency of 1.2 GHz will simply not be enough for the normal functioning of the OS.

With the official introduction of each new version of the Android OS, the number of requests for where to download the latest version of Android increases sharply. The desire to get the most up-to-date version is understandable - it has a brand new design, fresh features, and broader capabilities, complemented by an improved security system. However, not every user knows which version of Android is the latest, whether it can be downloaded, and if so, where. Today we will try to answer all these questions clearly.

Latest version of Android

It's worth starting by answering the question. At the beginning of summer 2017, the latest in the Android OS line is the Nougat version, which has several editions (7.0, 7.1, 7.1.1 and 7.1.2). Nougat was introduced in August 2016, that is, the version is not even a year old. Android 7.0 is somewhat different from its predecessor (Marshmallow) in terms of interface design and has received several completely new features. In addition, the developers paid a lot of attention to virtual reality, adapting the OS for it.

What's new in Android Nougat, differences from Marshmallow

There have been no global upgrades in appearance - we still have the same Android 6.0 with some cosmetic changes. But Google has slightly redesigned the notification system. Now notifications from one application are grouped, and you can reply to messages directly in the curtain, which is quite convenient. You can also now add settings icons from third-party programs to the notification shade. The Android 7.0 lock screen did not bring anything new - only the ability to set a background image other than the desktop screensaver appeared.

What else is new in Android Nougat:

• an interesting and useful ability to split the screen into two halves, which house two applications - quite convenient;
• it became possible to clear all running applications from the device’s memory at once - the innovation is not the most noticeable, but pleasant;
• a night mode has been added, which will protect your eyes at night - many smartphone manufacturers have long implemented a similar function in their shells;
• The developers have worked on the “Doze” function, which is responsible for energy saving. Previously, it retained its charge when the smartphone was immobilized, now when the screen is turned off;
• The memory usage mode for applications running in the background has been redesigned - stubborn applications will be limited in memory;
• now virtual reality is supported by hardware - keeping up with technology;
• slightly changed folder design, new animations and emoticons, a bunch of subtle updates.

A little later, Android 7.1 was introduced, which brought bug fixes found by users, as well as Daydream VR mode. Then Google released another update - Android 7.1.1. There were no major improvements, but the system became more stable and faster. Also with this update, round application icons appeared, and the user gained access to a new part of the settings, where you can view which files and applications are using the device’s memory.

At the beginning of April 2017, Google releases the final update for Android Nougat - 7.1.2. In it, the main emphasis was placed on correcting errors of previous versions; live wallpapers and a personal data encryption system also received minor improvements.

Despite all the additions, Android Nougat is not very different from Marshmallow. Yes, the ability to split the screen has appeared, yes, the notification system has been slightly redesigned, but is it worth pursuing these innovations?

Is it possible to download the latest version of Android on your phone?

Android, unlike its closed competitor iOS, is installed on hundreds of smartphones from different manufacturers, which leads to a number of problems. Google, which is developing the operating system, tests it only on certain devices (today – ), while other manufacturers of smartphones and tablets have to test the OS themselves on their devices.

It is clear that this process is long and labor-intensive: each function is checked for functionality, proprietary shells and capabilities are integrated. As a result, it turns out that companies only update their gadgets to the latest version of Android after some time, while for small companies this takes months, and often years.

Many users of Android devices are completely convinced that manufacturers deliberately do not release updates for older models in order to sell new ones with greater success. And, oddly enough, you can believe this.

Let's move on to which smartphones can download the latest version of Android today (June 2017), and which should receive the coveted update soon.

List of models with the latest version of Android Nougat

Perhaps, let's focus on these popular models. Not all devices that have already been updated or will be updated to Android Nougat are included in the table - all more or less current flagships are switching to the new version, and fresh state-of-the-art devices are not lagging behind.

You can find out for sure whether your device will receive the latest version of Android on the manufacturer’s official website.

How to update to the latest version of Android?

Having dealt with the features of “Nougat”, we proceed directly to updating the device. This process can occur in two scenarios:

• automatic transition to a new version;
• manual update using third-party programs and firmware.

Updating Android using standard means

The easiest way is to install official Android updates from the manufacturer. Well-known companies update their devices quite often, so the user only needs to perform a few simple operations.

Budget and older smartphone models cannot boast of frequent official updates.

• go to the device settings, where we look for the “About phone” section;
• find the item “Software Update” (“System Update”);
• in the window that opens, click the “Check for updates” button (or similar);
• wait for the system to find available updates;
• upon completion, a message will appear on the screen stating that the device is running on the latest available version of Android, or you will be prompted to download and install the update;

Before downloading and installing, you must fully charge the device.

• after some time (depending on your Internet speed), the system will download the update and begin installation;
• just follow the prompts until the update process is complete.

Updating Android using third-party tools

Many users who own smartphones not from the most well-known manufacturers have to resort to making extra efforts to get the latest version of Android.

If your device cannot be updated over the air, you must manually install the required firmware by first downloading it from the manufacturer’s official website or from third-party resources (custom firmware). The update process in this way is somewhat more complicated and requires the user to have more knowledge about operating systems.

You should start by installing software on the device, which will be a kind of manager for detection and installation. The simplest and most convenient tool can be the ROM Manager application, which can be downloaded absolutely free. This is a convenient tool that has proven itself to be a good tool for creating backups and installing firmware.

Note! For ROM Manager to work correctly, you must have ROOT rights on the device.

When you first launch the application, it will offer to install ClockWorkMod Recovery - this is with advanced capabilities, which will replace the standard Recovery mode. After which you can begin installation.

• Having launched the application, select “Install ROM from SD card” and indicate the path to the firmware (about where to download the latest version of Android for free, just below);
• It is recommended to activate the toggle switch next to the “Save current ROM” item (this is done so that the system can be rolled back in case of problems);
• Click “Reboot and installation” and confirm the action;
• We wait until the device reboots with the new version of Android.

Where can I download the latest version of Android for free?

Getting ROOT rights and installing ROM Manager is not enough to update your smartphone or tablet. One of the main components is the firmware, which must be downloaded. This can be done on the manufacturer’s official website, if, of course, he has provided it for your device. There are also custom firmwares developed through the efforts of ordinary users. You can get them on thematic forums, for example, on the 4PDA resource.

Operating systems do not stand still, constantly evolving. Android is absolutely stunning at the speed of updates: no sooner does one version have time to spread, than the next one is already presented. So, in the spring of 2017, when the share of Android Nougat did not exceed 10%, Google announced a version codenamed “O” (probably the full name will be Oreo in honor of the famous cookie). What are the developers going to surprise us with?

1. Firstly, Google, as always, promises an improved security system and higher speed. Errors and shortcomings of previous versions will be corrected, and work will be done on the stability of the OS.
2. Secondly, a lot of attention will be paid to virtual reality technologies and artificial intelligence of the Google Assistant. The new system promises to be more suitable for VR content, as well as more user-friendly.
3. Finally, the OS will most likely not change much in appearance. New animations will appear, notifications will be redesigned and improved, and desktop customization will become more complete. In general, Android O will be one step closer to the absolute ideal, becoming more convenient and faster.

The official release of the latest version of Android should be expected closer to the fall of 2017. However, in the first months, as usual, only a few devices will receive it. So, we are waiting for the latest version for most smartphones at the beginning of 2018.

Bottom line

Each new Android update brings, albeit minor, improvements to the operating system. It becomes more stable, beautiful and comfortable. Manufacturers also understand this, trying to update their smartphones, providing users with new features. And our material, we hope, will help you download the latest version of Android and install it on your phone.