We’ve known about Android 5.1 for a while now, but today Google finally went ahead and made the update officially official.
Google says that the Android 5.1 update “improves stability and performance” and brings with it some big new features. Those include support for multiple SIM cards and HD Voice. Also included in Device Protection, a feature that’ll keep your lost or stolen device locked until you sign in with your Google account. What’s notable is that Device Protection will keep your device locked even if it’s wiped. Finally, the Android 5.1 update brings the ability to change Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth connections right from the Quick Settings menu.
While Android 5.1 is an x.1 update from the big Android 5.0 update that was announced last year, it includes some pretty big new features. HD Voice will provide high-quality voice calls for those folks that still use their phone as a phone and the ability to connect to Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth devices from Quick Settings is a timesaver. And Device Protection’s ability to keep your phone locked even if it’s wiped will help to fight theft.
Google says that the Android 5.1 update is rolling out starting today, so keep an eye out on your Nexus device if you’ve got one.