Android 17 is set to enhance the user experience on Pixel phones globally, introducing a feature that promises to streamline access to applications. Dubbed Bubbles, this innovation builds upon the chat bubbles introduced in Android 11, which had faded into the background of user awareness. The new iteration expands the functionality of bubbles to encompass all app categories, allowing users to create floating shortcuts for their most frequently used applications.
These bubbles can be positioned anywhere on the screen for standard smartphones, while foldable devices will see them docked in the bottom right corner. This feature acts as a mini launcher, providing quick access to essential apps without the need to navigate away from ongoing tasks.
The true ingenuity of Bubbles lies in its ability to present apps in a smaller overlay window. This means users can swiftly check information or interact with an app without disrupting their current workflow. For instance, if you’re drafting a text message and need to reference a website, the bubble feature allows you to pull up the site in an overlay, enabling you to gather the necessary details before returning to your message.
Using bubbles on Android 17
Creating a bubble is straightforward: simply long-press the app icon on your home screen or within the app drawer, then select Bubble. If the app has a dedicated long-press menu, the bubble icon will appear without accompanying text, resembling a rectangle with an arrow pointing to one corner.
Once a bubble is created, tapping it reveals the full selection, complete with a + icon for adding additional bubbles. Users can easily reposition bubbles by tapping and holding, allowing for customization of their screen layout. To remove a bubble, a simple tap and drag to the X at the bottom will suffice, and this can be done for multiple bubbles simultaneously.
However, not all apps support the bubble feature. Some, like Google Authenticator, various games, and the default Camera app on Pixels, may not be compatible, potentially due to developer settings or inherent app limitations.
When a bubble is selected, the app appears overlaid on the current screen, allowing for normal interaction within a slightly reduced window. Users can close the bubble by tapping outside the overlay or switch between bubbles using the row at the top. This functionality does not replace traditional app launching; rather, it offers a quicker, more efficient method of accessing certain applications without interrupting ongoing activities. It resembles a more agile recent apps screen or the Slide Over feature on iPads.
For example, I have configured WhatsApp, Pocket Casts, and Google Health as bubbles, enabling me to respond to messages, manage podcast playback, and check my daily step count with minimal disruption. Tasks that previously required multiple swipes and taps can now be accomplished with just a couple of taps, significantly enhancing multitasking efficiency.
