It looks like the Samsung are finally keeping to their end of the bargain where getting the Android 7.0 Nougat update out for the Galaxy S7 as well as the Galaxy S7 edge is concerned. This is achieved through the Android 7.0 Nougat beta program, and it is certainly good news for owners of either device. After all, Android smartphone owners who use devices other than those from Google (and of course, the recently launched LG V20) have always found themselves to be in a state of perpetual wait when it comes to getting the latest version of Android up and running on their devices.
Google has yet to figure out a quick, easy and convenient method of addressing this fragmentation issue, since Android updates continue to remain within the domain of device manufacturers and mobile carriers. Hence, it is always encouraging to see the likes of Samsung come up with their take on the Android 7.0 Nougat update, through the beta program for its stable of Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge flagship smartphones. Of course, we are pretty sure if the Galaxy Note 7 actually worked perfectly fine without having any of those exploding battery issues which eventually resulted in a massive recall, worldwide flight ban and cessation of manufacturing, that late-2016 flagship phablet would also have fallen under the Android 7.0 Nougat beta program from Samsung as well.
RIght now, the Android 7.0 Nougat beta program remains open to those who are living in the US, UK, and Samsung’s backyard, South Korea. Folks living elsewhere need not fret -- we have gotten whiff that Samsung will also kick off this beta program over in China. Those who are interested in it will need to register before though, and the number of applicants who will be able to hop aboard the bandwagon will be based on a first come, first served basis.
If you are raring to go ahead with the beta program application, make sure you own either a Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge first. After that, ensure that you do have a Samsung Account, before proceeding by downloading the Galaxy Beta Program via Galaxy Apps or the Samsung Members app. These are Samsung apps which can be found in Google Play or Galaxy Apps, based on where you currently reside.
It certainly does require a fair bit of jumping through different hoops, but the fruit of your effort is definitely getting a sweet, sweet taste of Android 7.0 Nougat on your Galaxy S7 or Galaxy S7 edge if you qualify, not to mention rocking to the latest user interface. Apart from that, Samsung would like to enlist your assistance in obtaining your thoughts and feedback when it comes to performance, reliability, and usability.
The first Galaxy Beta Program was introduced in 2015 when Android 6.0 Marshmallow was launched, and it looks like this is going to be a staple in the years to come with subsequent Android version releases.
As for those who are using older yet Android 7.0 Nougat qualified devices such as the Galaxy S6, Galaxy Note 5, and previous generation Galaxy handsets, some more patience is required on your part.
