While many Android users are still dying to get a taste of the 5.0 version of the Android Lollipop update, some Nexus users are luckier as they are already about to get the much newer 5.1 version soon. The International Business Times reported that select Android users can soon enjoy the wonders of the 5.1 version, citing HTC's Product Management vice president Mo Versi's recent tweet.
In his tweet which is actually a reply to one of his followers' queries, Versi said that Google's next maintenance release would be next month, March.
Android Geeks detailed in a separate report which phones are set to get the update this March. The list includes "all the members of the Nexus family which received Lollipop support." To be more specific, these are Nexus 4, Nexus 5, Nexus 6, Nexus 7, both the 2012 and 2013 versions, Nexus 9, and Nexus 10. It claims that the update would also be sent to Google Play Edition (GPE) devices.
Meanwhile, Phandroid reported that the Nexus 6 from telecom company Verizon would come out with the Android Lollipop 5.1 on March 12. The update reportedly supports an "Enhanced 4G LTE Mode."
Android Geeks said the Android Lollipop 5.1 update will not provide new features but will improve the system's performance and fix some bugs. Though there are speculations that it would bring in something new in the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth toggles in the Quick Settings.
"In Android 5.1, tapping the 'Wi-Fi' or 'Bluetooth' words will open a list of nearby Wi-Fi networks or Bluetooth devices in a menu that's similar to the one of the 'Cellular data' toggle. If you want to go to the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth settings menu, you can press the new 'More settings' button at the bottom of the list. Naturally, if you press the Wi-Fi or Bluetooth icons you can toggle the functions on/off," to quote the Android Geeks' report.
IB Times on the other hand speculates that the new update would bring back the Silent mode. Gotta Be Mobile meanwhile says the new update would bring new clock animations, an upgrade screen pinning, a few changes on the Quick Settings, and bug fixes. The 5.1 version is said to fix problems and issues with wireless connections, OK Google function, Notifications, sounds, and even sudden app closures. It is also expected to improve RAM and battery management.
Again, the update would roll out in stages and newer Nexus phones like the Nexus 6 and Nexus 9 are expected to get it first. Users will receive it via OTA though you can also check it in the phone's settings manually.
Though Google has not yet fully recognized the 5.1 version, Gotta Be Mobile said the update has already been spotted in Android One handsets in Indonesia and the Philippines. The update reportedly come out with the Android One devices this February.