What you need to know
- Android 17 is now rolling out to Pixel 6 and newer devices after months of beta testing.
- App Bubbles let you keep full apps in floating windows for faster multitasking on large-screen devices.
- Screen Reactions can record your selfie camera and screen together without needing extra editing apps.
- Android 17 adds stronger security with improved threat detection and a more powerful Mark as Lost mode.
After an extensive testing period, Google has officially launched the stable version of Android 17. Following over three months of beta iterations, the update is now available for Pixel devices, marking a significant step forward in enhancing user experience across productivity, entertainment, security, and safety.
Which phones are getting Android 17 today?
Eligible Pixel devices will begin receiving Android 17 today, with the rollout expected to continue through 2026. This update is compatible with all Pixel phones starting from the Pixel 6 series. If the over-the-air (OTA) update hasn’t appeared on your device yet, there’s no need for concern; Google is implementing the rollout in phases. Users can manually check for the Android 17 update by navigating to Settings > System > System update.
Among the standout features is the innovative Screen Reactions, which allows users to record their screen alongside their selfie camera, simplifying the creation of reaction videos without the need for additional editing tools. Additionally, for those utilizing foldable devices, supported games can now adopt a dedicated 50/50 layout, enhancing gameplay by placing action on the top half of the screen while dynamic gamepad-style controls occupy the bottom half.
Security enhancements are also a focal point of this update. Users can now grant apps temporary location access for one-time use, adding a layer of privacy. The Mark as Lost feature within Find Hub has been upgraded, enabling users to lock a lost device with biometric authentication, ensuring that even if someone knows your PIN, they cannot access the phone without your fingerprint or facial recognition. Furthermore, improvements to Live Threat Detection will bolster the identification and blocking of suspicious applications and behaviors. Android 17 also introduces customizable PIN retry protections, allowing users to limit the number of attempts and increase wait times between failed entries.
In conjunction with the Android 17 launch, Google has announced the rollout of Wear OS 7 and various other features set to enhance the Android ecosystem with June’s Feature Drop.
Among the features of Android 17, the App Bubbles and one-time location access stand out as particularly exciting additions for many users.
