Google has kept its promise and updated its Nexus devices to Android Jelly Bean on schedule, adding some additional features to the Galaxy Nexus and Nexus 7 devices.
The update weighs in at roughly 14MB and was pushed over the air (OTA) for the Google devices. Those who want to jump the OTA queue, however, can also grab the upgraded operating system directly for the Galaxy Nexus and Nexus 7.
The firmware for the GSM version of the Galaxy Nexus, i.e. not Verizon's LTE-enabled device, is now available for download from Google's servers for manual flashing. The v4.2 ROM for the Nexus 7 is now available as well.
For the Galaxy Nexus, users need to download the "takju" ROM and install it on their handset. Users can either install it manually, or turn to the old and popular Android app known as ClockworkMod's ROM Manager, which is available for free from the Google Play store.
Nexus 7 owners will have to go through a similar process, i.e. download the Jelly Bean update ZIP and install it on the device, either manually or using the ROM Manager.
If, however, such methods sound like too much of a hassle, Google's OTA update should arrive over the next few days. It is worth noting, however, that it is unclear at this point whether Google has already started rolling out the OTA updates for the Nexus 7.
The most notable addition to Android 4.2 Jelly Bean is lockscreen widgets. These new widgets will let users add a clock, calendar, messaging, or Gmail widget to their lockscreen, making them accessible whether they have security in place or not. Instant camera access is the other major addition.
Google's Nexus devices are currently generating a massive amount of interest, particularly the Nexus 4 smartphone and Nexus 10 tablet. Both of these devices hit the Google Play store on Tuesday, Nov. 13, and will run the Android 4.2 Jelly Bean operating system out of the box. The 4.2 OTA update being pushed out to review units of the Nexus 4 and Nexus 10 will reportedly be the version shipped. The Nexus 10 is also getting multiple user support.
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