Google Nexus 2016 release date, specs latest rumors: Marlin, Sailfish will not feature Android 7.0 Nougat?

The much anticipated Google Nexus smartphones for 2016, Sailfish and Marlin, are expected to hit the markets within the coming weeks. With the recent launching of the latest Android 7.0 Nougat operating system (OS), it can be expected that the soon-to-be-released Nexus devices will be the first to feature the full contents of Nougat. However, the latest rumors suggest that the Sailfish and Marlin will not be released with the latest Android OS update.

Tech enthusiasts may be very disappointed with the news that the new Google Nexus smartphones developed by HTC will not be sporting the Android 7.0 Nougat. It seems to be an annual tradition for Google to release a new line of smartphone per launching of the latest Android OS version. Better things are happening, however, as the Google Nexus 2016 devices might be featuring the upgraded version of Nougat instead.

According to The Bitbag, there is a possibility that both Sailfish and Marlin will be released along with the updated Android Nougat OS. This version of Nougat will be the Android 7.1, and it will include many features that are not present in the current Android 7.0 Nougat. 

Furthermore, BGR reported that Google is already beginning the tests for the first ever update for Android 7.0 Nougat. The rumored Nougat update is given the codename "Nougat MR1." It is not yet known what exact features will be appended to the main Nougat operating system with the release of Android 7.1, but it is very likely that these features will be sported by Sailfish and Marlin. A known tech analyst from Android Police, David Ruddock, also supports the rumor of an Android 7.1 introduction by the Nexus 2016 smartphones. Prior to the release of the Nougat update, Ruddock is expecting that a developer preview will be held by Google in the coming weeks.

The online publication speculates that the Sailfish and Marlin will be released in the last week of September. To note, Google and HTC have not yet disclosed the details regarding the Nexus 2016's unveiling this year.