Nexus 4 is not included in the list of Nexus devices scheduled to receive the latest Android OS. But users would be pleased to know that the device can still experience Android 7.1 Nougat through a custom ROM.
As reported by IT PRO, CyanogenMod has developed an Android 7.1 Nougat ROM for Google Nexus 4 device. The 4-year-old smartphone's latest official software update was that of Lollipop 5.1.1 back in May 2015.
The update is called CyanogenMod 14 (CM14), which is a nightly build and can be expected to have some glitches. Nonetheless, Nexus 4 owners can experience the Nougat OS on their old device. Nexus 4, LG G3, LG G Pad 8.3, and Sony Xperia M can also benefit from this custom ROM.
Other Nexus devices that are scheduled to have the official Android 7.1 Nougat build include Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus 6 and Nexus 9. Google's latest flagship devices that were rebranded from Nexus to Pixel phones, Pixel X and Pixel XL, are among the first to have the Nougat.
Meanwhile, The Indian Express reported that Google will release the Android 7.1.1 Nougat version on Dec. 6 beginning with Nexus 6P. The report was based on the information listed on Vodafone Australia's website.
The Android 7.1.1 Nougat update for Nexus 6P would come in stages. According to the website, about 10,000 devices will be chosen randomly to receive the update via Firmware Over-The-Air on the first three days of the schedule. They will receive a notification that the update is already available, but users can also check manually through the Settings and About section of their devices. Additional 10 percent will be receiving the update in the next 10 days and by Dec. 20, all Nexus 6P devices are already eligible to upgrade to Android 7.1.1.
When upgrading, either through custom ROM or the official firmware, users are advised to backup personal data and files. They should also ensure that their devices have enough memory space and at least 80 percent of battery life.
