Android 5.1: Google unveils Lollipop update just after Apple Watch event

OS update brings support for multiple Sims and high-definition voice calls, but news has annoyed those that are yet to receive even Android 5.0

Google showed off Lollipop at an event at the end of October. Source: Getty Images (Getty Images)

Google unveiled an update to its Android mobile operating system last night.

The Lollipop update was announced just hours after the end of Apple’s watch keynote, and gives Android phones support for multiple Sim cards, special security settings to protect devices if they are stolen and high-definition phone calls.

The update will be rolled out to all Nexus phones soon. But even on Google’s own blog the announcement prompted complaints that many phones made by third-parties have still not even received Android 5.0, known as Lollipop.

“Device Protection”, part of the new update, enables settings on “most Android phones and tablets”, including Google’s own Nexus 6 and 9. It means that, if tablets or phones are lost or stolen, they will stay locked even if it has been reset to factory settings.

High-definition calling uses special technologies to allow calls to be extra clear, if they are made on certain phones and networks.

The update brings other improvements, including the ability to use the Quick Settings menu to change wifi networks and control Bluetooth devices.

It wasn’t Google’s only attempt to distract from the Apple Watch on its big day. Just before Apple’s big keynote event, Google released an ad showing the diversity and availability of Android Wear, in an apparent dig at Apple.