Less than a month after releasing the Android 8.1 Oreo Beta, Essential has started rolling out Stable Android 8.1 Oreo update to its Essential PH-1 smartphone. The update is about 1015.1MB (Build OPM1.180104.092) and comes with various features such as Smart text selection, Picture-in-picture, Faster startup time, Google Play protect etc. This update also includes March 2018 security patches and fix for scrolling issues.
We're excited to announce the full release of Android Oreo 8.1 on Essential Phone! Check your phone now for the update. pic.twitter.com/0PwPBMj6h1
— Essential (@essential) March 13, 2018
As the update is rolling out in Phases, it might take same some time reach your device. You will receive the update notification once the update hits your device. In the meantime, you can also check for updates manually by going to Settings -> About -> System Updates – Check for Updates. For better results, always download the update over WiFi rather than the Cellular network. To be on a safer side, Backup your device before initiating the update. As per Essential, Devices on all networks except Sprint and TELUS will receive instant software updates. The Sprint and TELUS perform additional testing at the time of release and roll out the updates once they are done with the testing.
Android Oreo Quick Highlights
- Faster boot speed
- Over 60 new emojis
- Picture-in-picture mode
- Background limits to improve battery life and the device performance
- Autofill user login data for faster sign-in
- Notification Dots
- Android Instant Apps – Open apps right from the browser without any installation
- Google Play Protect
- Quick access to accessibility options from the navigation bar
- Ambient screen to highlight the incoming notification with larger font
- Integrated printing support
- Granular and consistent notification controls
- Wi-Fi Assistant – Auto-connects you to high-quality open WiFi and secures your connection with a VPN back to Google.
- Adaptive icons – displays in different shapes, based on a mask selected by the device