With Android 8.1 Preview Users Can Enjoy Pixel 2 Features on an Old Phone
Pixel 2 was released on the 19th of October 2017 and it comes loaded with special features, not available on your regular smartphone using Android operating system. It seems that Google has decided to release some of those extra features to older phones using Android 8.1 OS. Android 8.1 update will be officially released in December. Until then, the first preview is available and can be downloaded.
Download Android 8.1 Preview
Before downloading the latest Android OS, users need to make sure their phone supports the update. The Android 8.1 preview is, for now, only available to Google devices: Nexus 5X, Nexus 6P, Pixel C, Pixel and Pixel XL, Pixel 2 and Pixel 2XL.
If your device is one of those mentioned then you will want to head to the Android Beta Program website and log in using your Google account. A page explaining eligible devices will appear. Choose your device and the Android 8.1 Preview should start to download automatically.
About Android 8.1 Oreo
According to Gadget Hacks, the new Android OS comes with many new features and some fixes to better the experience. One of such features is the dark theme, which will be included with Google’s Pixel 2 phone. Those interested on activating the dark theme, it is only necessary to change the home wallpaper to a dark image and the menus and folders will also change automatically.
The dark theme feature is appreciated for those who are sick of watching a white screen every day, not to mention when you need to check your phone at night.
Another great addition is the semi-transparent notification shade from Pixel 2. A new power menu will be also introduced with Google’s attest device. This menu will slide out from the side of the device and the features have a different design from the old menu.