1. Early Release

On Aug. 22, Google made its Android 7.0 Nougat mobile operating system available for download for compatible devices earlier than in past years. With the release, the Android team kicked off a highly anticipated annual tradition within the mobile space where the leading technology vendors unveil next-generation devices and associated software versions that are jam-packed with new features and functionality.

2. A New Device Is on Its Way

Next in line is the all-new LG V20, set for release on Sept. 6, which will be the first Android device on the market enabled with Nougat by default.

3. Advancements for Android Users

For consumers and mobile workers, now is the time to decide whether they’ll buy the latest and greatest device or upgrade to the newest OS version to ensure their current device is keeping up with the times.

Considering that Android remains among the most popular mobile platforms available on the market, IT organizations can expect that a considerable percentage of their user base has already upgraded to version 7.0 from their Nexus 6, Nexus 9, Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Nexus Player, Pixel C or General Mobile 4G device.

Those who completed the update gained a number of work-friendly enhancements, including a multiwindow view, enhanced security features and app switching shortcuts.

4. Changes for Android for Work

Lest we forget, the same users who completed the Nougat update also expect to use these devices the way they always have: to get work done on the go. For this reason, Android has implemented a few changes, including a new security challenge for work apps and remote reboot.

Enterprise IT must turn to their enterprise mobility management (EMM) solution to ensure that all Android users, including the self-provisioned mobile workers who’ve taken the bring-your-own-device (BYOD) route, are fully supported and secured with zero interruptions to their productivity.

5. MaaS360 Offers Same-Day Support

IBM MaaS360 was pleased to offer same-day support for Android 7.0 Nougat, ensuring all new and previously enrolled devices that completed their update on Aug. 22 could seamlessly be managed through its EMM platform with no disruptions or maintenance requirements.

Regarded as a best-in-class cloud EMM platform, MaaS360 offers a level of dependability in providing immediate support for the latest mobile OS versions that can only be delivered to customers by a true software-as-a-service (SaaS) provider.

6. No Impact on Business Productivity

With these updates, administrators can enroll and manage Android 7.0 Nougat devices via the MaaS360 platform, offering support for their enhanced native security functionality. Users who’ve upgraded to the latest version can access and manage email, calendar, contacts, chat, browser and documents on Android Nougat devices with no interference.

7. Seven New MaaS360 Apps to Accommodate Android 7.0

Delivering on its mission to enable apps and content with trust on any device, anytime, anywhere, MaaS360 expanded its end user support for Android by releasing version 5.50 on Aug. 22. It’s available via the Google Play catalog for the following applications:

• MaaS360 for Android;
• Secure Mail;
• Chat;
• Browser;
• Docs;
• Editor; and
• Viewer.