Android device updates: Nexus January security updates, bug fixes for the Verizon LG V10
Yet there’s hope, as Samsung and the lot tend to get around to the latest version of Android after a couple of months of work. Until then, you can read about what everybody else is getting right here.
Each week, we compile all the major software updates to hit the Android ecosystem, including phones and tablets on U.S. carriers, unlocked phones, Android Wear smartwatches, and Android TV devices. Making sure your device is running the latest available software is a good housekeeping practice, ensuring you have the latest features with fewer bugs and gaping security holes.
Monthly security update: The January security patch is here for Nexus devices (smartphones, tablets, and the Nexus Player). The patches are based on Android 6.0.1 and fix a number of security issues. The best bet is to wait for the over-the-air download, but if you’d like it now you can always grab the factory images.
Verizon LG V10: A small but helpful update is coming your way. Look for software version VS99011B, which Verizon says will stop crashes with the QRemote app, fix issues with the contacts and the device’s unique second screen.
Shield Android TV: As detailed on the Nvidia blog, the Marshmallow upgrade gives you the ability to use an SD card as internal storage. You’ll also see a speedier startup process and some other all-around improvements.
Shield Tablet: When announcing the Android TV rollout, Nvidia also pledged that Marshmallow would come to the first-generation Shield Tablet. So stay tuned. If you have the Tablet K1 model, you should have the over-the-air Marshmallow update by now.
Moto X (2014): Motorola has done a pretty good job with Marshmallow during this update cycle. The last-generation Moto X recently got its Marshmallow update. If it hasn’t hit your device in an over-the-air update, head to the Settings to see if you need to trigger it yourself.
LG G Stylo: The Galaxy Note isn’t the only device in town with a stylus. The LG G Stylo not only has its own, but now it has Marshmallow (something the Galaxy flagships don’t have yet). Sprint published the upgrade late in December, so it should hit your device anytime.