Google has unveiled the stable version of Android 17, now available for all supported Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series, Pixel Fold, and Pixel Tablet. This latest iteration introduces a suite of enhancements designed to optimize performance across various device types, particularly large-screen formats like foldable phones and tablets. With these improvements, anticipation builds for Samsung’s accelerated development of One UI 9.0, set to debut on the Galaxy Z Flip 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8, and Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra before rolling out to other compatible devices.
What’s new in Android 17?
Among the standout features of Android 17 is the introduction of App Bubbles, which revolutionize multitasking. Users can long-press any app icon to launch it in a compact floating window that remains accessible above other applications. On larger screens, these app bubbles are conveniently docked in a dedicated Bubble Bar at the bottom, allowing for seamless switching and resizing.
App Bubbles
App Bubbles enhance the multitasking experience, especially on devices like book-style foldables and tablets. Users can easily switch between bubbles with a simple tap, resizing or maximizing them as needed for optimal usability.
Improved Picture-in-Picture mode on desktops
In desktop environments such as Samsung DeX, the Picture-in-Picture feature has been enhanced to allow full interactivity within floating windows, making it easier to engage with app elements directly.
App improvements for foldable phones and tablets
Android 17 encourages developers to embrace flexibility by removing restrictions on portrait-only app orientations. This shift allows apps and games to utilize the entire screen and adapt to landscape mode as necessary. Google’s adaptive-first approach motivates developers to optimize their applications for various aspect ratios and input methods, ensuring a more inclusive user experience.
Faster and smoother performance
To enhance overall system responsiveness and battery life, Google has implemented app memory limits in Android 17, curbing excessive RAM usage. This update also aims to minimize frame drops and stuttering during gaming by refining memory management.
Improved gaming on foldable phones
For gaming enthusiasts, Android 17 introduces a 50:50 split-screen mode tailored for foldable phones, allowing games to occupy one half of the screen while a touch-based gamepad fills the other. Additionally, native controller remapping offers users the ability to customize their gaming controls for an enhanced experience.
Continue On
The Continue On feature streamlines task transitions between devices, presenting users with suggestions to continue recently opened tasks on other devices. This functionality extends to app-to-web transitions, enabling users to continue their work in a web browser if the app is unavailable on their tablet.
Improved privacy and security
Android 17 enhances user privacy by allowing temporary access to precise location data and selective sharing of contacts. The new Mark As Lost feature in Find Hub enables users to lock a lost or stolen phone using biometric authentication, adding an extra layer of security. Google has also bolstered its Live Threat Detection capabilities to better protect users from suspicious apps and scams.
Eclipsa Video, RAW14, and improved media codec support
With support for the new Eclipsa Video HDR format, Android 17 aims to deliver a more consistent viewing experience across SDR and HDR content. This format utilizes dynamic metadata to optimize playback based on various factors, including display capabilities and ambient lighting. Furthermore, the Extended HE-AAC software encoder enhances audio quality for voice messages, particularly in low-bandwidth scenarios.
Improved camera quality and capabilities
The introduction of the RAW14 image format allows professional camera apps to capture greater color depth and detail. Additionally, a new Constant Quality mode for video recording ensures consistent quality throughout a session, while new APIs enable devices to identify different camera types.
Improved Bluetooth LE Audio support
Android 17 also features enhanced support for Bluetooth Low Energy Audio, specifically for hearing aids. This update allows devices to differentiate between hearing aids and standard headphones, providing more tailored audio routing options.
