Android 4.2 Jelly Bean lands on Nexus 7

We can confirm that the latest version of Android Jelly Bean, version 4.2, is now available over-the-air (OTA) for Google and Asus’ 7-inch Nexus tablet.

The build debuted on the Nexus 4 smartphone, made by LG, and the Samsung-built Nexus 10 tablet, both of which Google launched on October 29.

Each of those devices are now on the market in the UK, but the Nexus 7, which has been available since July, is now also getting the same operating system version.

Version 4.2 adds Photosphere, a feature which is a bit like panoramic capture mode but instead allows you to capture 360-degree ‘spheres’ of imagery which you can pan around inside.

You can also upload these snaps to Google Maps and there’s an instant upload feature for all photos to integrate your photography with social networking.

The touch keyboard now includes a Swype-like input method, allowing you to drag your finger from one letter to the other in a continuous line to assemble words.

Tablets on Android 4.2, including the Nexus 7, will be have a user sharing feature, allowing you to create multiple profiles on the same device with different app and settings configurations. This makes it ideal for tablets shared between family members.

Miracast is a media sharing feature which allows you to wirelessly stream content to a compatible HDMI and wireless-enabled TV.

In addition, Google has updated the Google Now app with more diverse location information for things like gigs, cinemas and, oddly, photo opportunities, to name but a few.

There are also a few interface tweaks, most notably the addition of a second swipe-down bar on top of the existing notifications bar. This new bar is for quick settings, allowing you to quickly toggle on or off things like Wi-Fi, audio or syncing.

The Samsung Galaxy Nexus smartphone is also receiving this update but only for models bought directly from Google’s Play store, although we expect other models will follow shortly.