Android N Release Date and Updates: HTC Develops Google's Next Nexus Devices Codenamed M1 (Marlin) and S1 (Sailfish)

Apr 28, 2016 01:27 PM EDT

A reporter from Venture Beat claims HTC is now working on two Android N-running devices in partnership with Google. The phone maker behind HTC M10 is reportedly developing the next Nexus handsets with model numbers S1 and M1. Now, here's what is currently known about M1, S1 release date, specs and rumors on the web.

Evan Blass posted on Twitter that HTC is on its way to release "a pair of Android N devices for Google internally dubbed M1 and S1." Several tech websites predict the forthcoming Nexus devices will be called Marlin and Sailfish. 

It is interesting to take note that Google tends to name its Nexus devices after aquatic life, the current 5X is called Bullhead, and 6P is known as Angler. In addition, the Nexus 6 was Shamu, and the Nexus 5 was Hammerhead. Of course, all of these handsets were renamed after they were released in the market.

This is not the first collaboration of HTC and Google.  These two companies developed the very first Nexus smartphone and later the Nexus 9 tablet.  The HTC Nexus One received many praises from critics, so the rumored M1 and S1 could also please many tech enthusiasts.

As of now, details about the handsets' specs, price and release date are still scarce. However, HTC fans will be happy to hear that the company will launch the next-generation Nexus devices this year.

According to TechnoBuffalo, one the alleged HTC Nexus handsets could have a 3D Touch display, which is present in Apple's latest iPhones. Also, the next Nexus handsets could sport very impressive specs, partnered with HTC's penchant for design.

A report from Pocket-Lint says Qualcomm's Snapdragon 820 is rumored to land on at least one device. Both devices could also have Android N firmware right out of the box.

Speaking of Android N, let's check out what are the features of Google's upcoming operating system.Tech Radar reported the firmware could introduce a VR mode to Android phones to compete against Samsung's Gear VR. Additionally, it could bring brand-new features like Bundled notifications, Direct-reply notifications and Multi-window. The latter will allow users to work in split-screen mode.

Android N is the seventh operating system of Google. It is the successor of the current Android Marshmallow.

We'll give more updates about Android N next month after Google's I/O developers conference, which is scheduled on May 18-20 2016. Stay tuned with Gospel Herald for more information.