Ever since the rollout of the Android 17 beta, excitement has been palpable among users eager to explore its new features. Having installed it on my Google Pixel 10a, I found myself particularly drawn to the app bubbles feature, which has become an integral part of my daily routine.
While the compact design of the Pixel 10a is charming, it does present some challenges for multitasking. However, app bubbles have emerged as a solution, enhancing the fluidity of my interactions and making management of multiple tasks significantly easier. The good news is that this feature is no longer confined to beta testers; it is now available to all Android users with the stable Android 17 release. Below, I provide a straightforward guide on how to utilize this feature on your device.
How to create app bubbles
Creating app bubbles on your Pixel is a breeze. There’s no need for convoluted setups—just ensure you have the stable Android 17 update installed. Once that’s done, follow these simple steps:
- Open the app drawer on your Pixel.
- Long-press the app you wish to convert into a bubble.
- From the pop-up menu, select the Bubble option.
- The app will instantly transform into a compact bubble view.
- Repeat these steps for any additional apps you want to bubble.
- The system will automatically group these apps into your first bubble set.
- If not, tap the + (plus) icon in the app bubbles panel to manually add apps from your home screen.
It’s worth noting that you can maintain up to five app bubbles at any given time. Adding more will replace an existing bubble, ensuring that the limit is upheld.
Now that you’re set up, let’s delve into how I’ve been integrating Android 17’s app bubbles into my daily workflow.
How I’ve been using Android 17’s app bubbles
Since updating to Android 17, I find it hard to recall a day without utilizing app bubbles. I’ve intentionally organized my setup, dividing it between work and personal use, which has proven beneficial in my everyday life. My routine typically involves toggling between a select few apps, each serving a distinct purpose. For instance, I frequently reply to Slack messages, check Gmail for urgent updates, enjoy YouTube for background music, and occasionally indulge in Instagram reels, all while maintaining communication through WhatsApp.
Initially, I didn’t overthink the arrangement of these bubbles; I simply set them up based on my frequent usage and have found no reason to alter them since. On the work front, Slack, Gmail, and WhatsApp are my primary tools. Given the fast-paced nature of the tech industry, Slack is my go-to for immediate updates, while Gmail serves as the repository for press releases and newsletters that keep me informed.
Though I strive for focus, I occasionally find myself drifting into Instagram for research purposes—at least that’s the justification I give myself. YouTube, meanwhile, plays a dual role, providing the soundtrack to my work without requiring extensive interaction. The ability to pause or skip tracks quickly through bubbles enhances this experience, making it feel seamless.
While my setup works well for me, the beauty of app bubbles lies in their adaptability. Each user can customize their arrangement based on personal habits. My setup evolved naturally as I gravitated toward my most-used apps, resulting in a satisfying organization where essential tools are always within reach.
There’s minimal learning curve associated with using app bubbles on your Pixel. Once you begin, it integrates effortlessly into your routine, becoming a natural extension of your phone experience. This simplicity is part of what makes the feature so appealing.
What’s particularly exciting is that app bubbles are merely one facet of the Android 17 experience. If such a straightforward feature can significantly enhance my daily usage, it stands to reason that there are many more elements within this update worth exploring. Having spent over a month with Android 17, I look forward to sharing additional insights as I continue to engage with its features.
