Well, there you go. Not two minutes ago we were speculating on the launch of Android 5.1 and Google has just confirmed that the latest version of Android – Android 5.1 (Lollipop) – will begin rolling out today.
There’s a few new features in Android 5.1 which Google has outlined on the official Android blog, they include better support for Dual-SIM phones, HD Voice, Android Device manager updates which better secure your phone even if it’s been factory reset and refinements to the way you join Wi-Fi networks and control Bluetooth devices.
The full list that Google has acknowledged is in the udpate is included here, but we think there may be a few surprises to find once we get our hands on the update:
- Whether you want to share your phone with a family member or better manage your mobile costs, Android Lollipop 5.1 now lets you use more than one SIM card on a device with multiple SIM slots.
- With Device Protection, your lost or stolen device will remain locked until you sign in with your Google account – even if someone resets your device to factory settings. This feature will be available on most Android phones and tablets shipped with Android 5.1 in addition to Nexus 6 and Nexus 9.
- High Definition voice calling is now on your mobile phone. Get crystal clear calling with HD Voice between compatible Android 5.1 devices like the Nexus 6 on T-Mobile or Verizon.
- Android 5.1 Lollipop also provides enhancements such as the ability to join Wi-Fi networks and control of your paired Bluetooth devices directly from Quick Settings.
We’ll be keeping an eye on the Nexus Factory Images page today as we expect those to appear just ahead of the OTA update push. If you get a notification for an OTA update on your Nexus device, make sure you capture the link and let us know.
