Android 7.0 Nougat Update: Google Nexus 4 Can Have A Go Of The Newest OS Update

Google has recently released their much anticipated Android 7.0 Nougat but has left older devices like Nexus 4, Nexus 5 and Nexus 7 (2013) of the party list. However, older Google Nexus 4 can still enjoy the latest version of Android OS, as Android 7.0 Nougat has just been officially ported to the device.

International Business Times reported that developers have taken advantage of Android's open source policy and made custom ROMs to load a working build of Android 7.0 Nougat on to the 4-year old Nexus 4. After seeing the Nexus 5 have the unofficial treat, and the Nexus 7 (2013) got an unofficial Nougat ROM a few days ago, it is now LG Nexus 4's turn. Though the port is still unofficial, this could bring a taste if the newest OS to the old handset.

According to phonearena.com, XDA Developers have figured out a way to install the old smartphone with the latest Android update. With the device having a Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro processor, 2 GB RAM and 2100 mAh battery, it may seem impossible to do compared to other flagship smartphones today.

As many have already expected, with an unofficial build, the Android Nougat port to the Nexus 4 will not work the same way it will on newer smartphone and will have certain limitations. But then again, unofficial builds are not that smooth when it comes to functioning. With the Nexus 4, the Nougat port face different issues like crashes and some features such as the GPS, NFC and accelerometer are not working.

Meanwhile, Zaclimon, an XDA recognized contributor wrote: "What's up guys, even though this Nexus 4 is 4 years old, (pun not intended XD) it's still holding up strong and in time for some Nougat treatment."

Like the Nexus 7 (2013) Nougat ROM, this is not a daily driver and users have been warned that if they choose to flash their devices, they should do so at their own risk. At the same time, Zaclimon warns that a "ton" of crashes are bound to happen. Tech Times also mentioned in a report that since the port is still pretty much a work in progress, it should not be flashed on your Nexus 4 if you're using it as a daily driver. However, if you have this archaic smartphone collecting dust in a drawer somewhere, this is an opportunity for you to restore it. 

So, if you decide to give your Nexus 4 a makeover, and would like to try out this Nougat ROM, follow the instructions from XDA and comment below to tell us about your Nougat ROM experience.