How to safely and completely update the Samsung Galaxy S7 to Android 7 Nougat

  • Android 7 Nougat improves the Galaxy S7's features, security, and energy efficiency.
  • There are several ways to update: the official OTA for inexperienced users and the ODIN method for advanced users.
  • It's essential to back up your data and follow each step to avoid loss or errors during the upgrade.
Angel Pitarque

8 minutes

Update Samsung Galaxy S7 to Android 7 Nougat

El Samsung Galaxy S7 and its Edge version have been for years one of the most beloved and powerful phones in Samsung's high-end range. They continue to have a large user base, many of whom are looking to maximize their experience by installing the latest version of the compatible Android system, Especially Android 7 NougatThis article gathers all the information, steps, and options for updating your Galaxy S7 to Android 7, maximizing its performance and answering common questions, integrating best practices and warnings you should keep in mind.

Why update your Samsung Galaxy S7 to Android 7 Nougat?

Upgrade your Samsung Galaxy S7 to Android 7 Nougat It represents a real leap forward in terms of functionality, performance, and security. The Nougat version includes significant improvements in battery management, more efficient multitasking, a split-screen mode, and a revamped notification design that makes everyday use much more convenient. Plus, you get the latest security patches, optimization for the latest applications and support for new technologies.

Although the Galaxy S7 came out with an older version of Android, Many users want to push it to the limits of its compatibility. and enjoy a more fluid, modern and secure experience.

Android 7 Nougat features and new features

Ways to update the Samsung Galaxy S7 to Android 7 Nougat

There are several reliable and relatively simple alternatives for installing Android 7 Nougat on your Samsung Galaxy S7, depending on whether the update has already been released for your model and country, or if you want to force the process using manual methods. Below, we've broken down the safest and most commonly used options, along with their pros and cons.

Update via OTA (Over The Air)

The simplest and most recommended way to Update the Samsung Galaxy S7 Android 7 Nougat is via the official OTA update offered by Samsung. This method does not require technical knowledge and keeps all your files and settings intact. The process is as follows:

  1. When the update is ready for your device, you'll automatically receive a notification.
  2. Accede to Settings > Software Update > Download and Install.
  3. Connect to a Wi-Fi network to avoid consuming mobile data, as the file is around 1,2 GB.
  4. Read the news and accept the terms. Click on Install Now.
  5. The phone will reboot several times and complete the process in about 10-20 minutes, depending on the number of apps you have.

During the update, your phone may optimize background apps, allowing you to use them in the meantime. Once the update is complete, you'll have Android 7 Nougat fully installed and running.

Android 7 Nougat adoption and fragmentation

Force update manually with ODIN and official firmware

If the OTA update has not yet arrived for your model or region, you can force install Downloading the official Android 7 Nougat firmware and flashing it with ODIN, Samsung's official operating system installation tool. This method is safe if followed correctly, but requires more attention and care.

Preliminary steps and warnings

  • Make a backup of all your important data, photos, apps, contacts, and personal files. The process may require a factory reset.
  • Check the exact model of your Galaxy S7: SM-G930F for S7 and SM-G935F for S7 Edge.
  • Download the appropriate firmware from official sources, such as SamMobile, and the ODIN tool (version 3.11 or higher).
  • Please note that if you install firmware from another region (e.g., BTU for the UK), you may temporarily lose services like Samsung Pay or Samsung Members until the official version for your country is available.
  • This process, although official, may involve risks: follow all steps carefully.

Android 7 Nougat adoption and fragmentation

How to Flash Android 7 Nougat with ODIN

  1. Have Samsung Kies closed and Samsung USB drivers installed on your PC.
  2. Download the official Android 7 Nougat firmware for your model and region from SamMobile.
  3. Unzip the archive, which will include several files: AP, BL, CP, and CSC (choose HOME_CSC if you want to keep your data, CSC if you prefer a clean install).
  4. Activate OEM unlock and USB debugging en Settings> Developer options (activate this option by repeatedly clicking on 'Build Number' from Settings> Phone information).
  5. Turn off your phone and turn it on Download mode: press and hold Home + Volume down + Power.
  6. Open ODIN, connect your phone to your PC via USB. Wait for ODIN to detect it (ID:COM in blue).
  7. Add the downloaded files to ODIN in their corresponding sections: BL, AP, CP and CSC or HOME_CSC.
  8. Check that the option Division is not marked.
  9. Balance START and wait for the process to finish (do not disconnect the phone).
  10. The Galaxy S7 will restart automatically. The first time, it may take longer than usual.

Once the installation is complete, your device will have a fully functional Android 7 Nougat. If you have any issues, you can restore your backup or install the firmware for your region when it's available.

Samsung Experience Touchwiz Android 7 Nougat

Android 7 Nougat Highlights for the Galaxy S7

With the arrival of Android 7 Nougat, the Samsung Galaxy S7 experiences crucial improvements in several key areas:

  • Advanced multitasking: split screen to use two applications simultaneously.
  • Grouped notifications: Smarter management, quick responses and direct access to notifications.
  • Battery optimization: Better energy management, with improved Doze that extends daily use.
  • Increased security and updated patches: reducing vulnerabilities and making the phone more secure.
  • Optimized performance: greater fluidity in animations and opening applications.
  • Redesign of the Samsung Experience interface (formerly Touchwiz): more intuitive and visually appealing menus and settings.

Android 7.0 Nougat new features and improvements

When will I get the update to Android 7 Nougat?

The Android 7 Nougat OTA update for the Galaxy S7 is being rolled out in stages, depending on the region and carrier. free terminals They usually receive the update sooner than those purchased through the carrier. If you have a model purchased through a carrier, the arrival of the OTA may be delayed for a few more weeks, as they must adapt the software to their services.

In case you do not receive the update after several weeks, please check Settings> Software update and try a manual search. If the wait is too long, you can use the ODIN method explained above, but always with the caveats noted.

The same process and timing apply to the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge models, and coming soon to devices like the Galaxy S6, S6 Edge, and other compatible Samsung devices.

FAQs and tips after updating to Android 7 Nougat

  • Do I lose my personal data when I update? Using OTA preserves your data. If you use ODIN with the HOME_CSC file, it's also preserved. However, if you flash CSC, it's a clean install and you'll lose your data. Always back up your key files.
  • Will Samsung Pay and Samsung Members continue to work? If you install firmware from another region, they may not work until you revert to the official firmware for your country.
  • Can you revert to a previous version? Yes, by installing the old firmware via ODIN, although this is not recommended for security reasons.
  • Will I receive new updates after installing Android 7? Yes, as long as you install an official, stable release, you'll continue to receive OTA patches until the end of support for the Galaxy S7.
  • Is it possible to root the phone after updating? Yes, but you'll void your warranty and could compromise security. Only do this if you know what you're doing and have a backup of your data.

Video tutorial of the update process

For those who prefer an audiovisual guide, in our Youtube you have a step by step video on how to update your Samsung Galaxy S7 to Android 7 Nougat. It addresses common issues and shows the main new features after the upgrade.

What to do after installing Android 7 Nougat?

Once the update is complete and you've verified that everything is working correctly, take the opportunity to:

  • Explore new features multitasking, notifications and energy management.
  • Reinstall or update your apps from Google Play to ensure they work with Nougat.
  • Visit our comments section and share your experiences, questions, or advice with other users.
  • Perform a hard reset if you encounter any minor issues after updating.

Android 7 Nougat adoption and fragmentation

Following these steps will keep your Galaxy S7 up-to-date, secure, and performing better. If you have any other questions about the update, app compatibility, or issues after the update, feel free to ask in the comments section or check out our tutorials. Keeping your device running the latest compatible version is the best way to extend its lifespan, take advantage of new Android features, and increase security.

More resources and tips for the Samsung Galaxy S7

If you want to get the most out of your Samsung Galaxy S7 with Android 7 Nougat, we recommend these helpful resources:

Related article:
Samsung Galaxy S8 Manual PDF in Spanish: Download, Guide and Full Specifications