Google announces Android 5.1 Lollipop

Google has official announced an new lollipop update to Android 5.1 despite having appeared on some Android One devices prior to its launch. The new update brings features like high definition (HD) voice calls, native support for multiple SIM cards, device protection and they claim that stability has improved.

Android 5.1 comes with device protection that requires users to sign in with your Google password even if they restore restore factory settings when it is locked or stolen. This will however work on some devices especially those that will come with 5.1 pre-installed and a few such as the Nexus 6 and Nexus 9.

Dual SIM users can now select what SIM card they would like to use to place a call when dialing. This is important for Google’s Android One line up considering most of these devices are dual SIM.

The recent apps bug has been fixed and users can also select WiFi networks directly from the notification bar rather than having to open the WiFi app to select a WiFi network to connect to.

Currently Google has posted Android 5.1 factory images for the Nexus 5, Nexus 7 2012 (WiFi), and the Nexus 10 and an over the Air update should roll out shortly.

I will be updating my Android Lollipop experience to match this new Android 5.1 update shortly