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Bubbles feature

I’m testing Android 17's app bubbles, and I’ve already found a big problem
AppWizard
April 2, 2026

I’m testing Android 17’s app bubbles, and I’ve already found a big problem

The author transitioned from a Samsung device to the Pixel 10 Pro and appreciates the new app bubbles feature introduced in Android 17 Beta 3, which allows users to launch apps in a movable and collapsible window. This feature is particularly useful for multitasking, such as accessing notes or media while using other apps. However, the author notes that app bubbles have limitations, including a cumbersome process to open them, lack of resizing options, and issues with returning to full-screen mode. In contrast, Samsung's pop-up windows offer more flexibility and convenience. Despite these drawbacks, the author remains hopeful for improvements to app bubbles in future updates.
6 ways I'm already using Android 17's app bubbles to multitask better
AppWizard
March 27, 2026

6 ways I’m already using Android 17’s app bubbles to multitask better

Google has released Android 17 Beta 3, featuring app bubbles, which enhance multitasking by allowing users to keep applications floating on their screens for quick access. Users can create app bubbles by long-pressing any app icon and selecting the "bubble" option, which opens the app in a small floating window that can be minimized into a bubble. Multiple bubbles can be stacked, and tapping a stack expands it for easy management. Users can remove bubbles by dragging them to an "X" button, and on foldable devices, bubbles can be arranged in a taskbar-style layout. The app bubbles feature allows for various multitasking scenarios, such as responding to messages without switching apps, keeping notes open while shopping, watching videos while taking notes, checking maps during chats, planning trips without app switching, and copying information easily between applications.
Android 17 Beta 2 brings a pop-out windowed mode to all apps with ‘bubbles’
AppWizard
February 26, 2026

Android 17 Beta 2 brings a pop-out windowed mode to all apps with ‘bubbles’

Android 17 Beta 2 introduces a new windowing mode that expands the concept of "bubbles" beyond messaging apps to include floating windows for non-messaging applications. This feature allows users to interact with multiple applications simultaneously. The term "bubbles" now refers to both the traditional messaging mode and the new floating windows, which can be resized and moved, similar to multitasking features from other manufacturers. Any Android device can utilize these floating app bubbles, but foldables and tablets will have a shortcut for launching windowed apps from the taskbar. Developers are advised to follow existing multi-window mode guidelines for compatibility with the new feature.
Android on tablets is eyeing an upgrade that could finally ease app multi-tasking
AppWizard
October 26, 2025

Android on tablets is eyeing an upgrade that could finally ease app multi-tasking

Google is enhancing multitasking on Android tablets by introducing a feature that allows users to launch any app in a floating bubble. This feature, identified in the Android 2510 Canary build, enables users to drag an app icon from the taskbar to open it in a floating bubble window. It facilitates simultaneous use of applications like YouTube, Chrome, or Messages, improving workflow. Although not officially confirmed, it is speculated to be included in Android 16’s third quarterly release (QPR3) around March of next year. The floating bubbles feature enhances productivity by allowing users to stream, chat, or browse while engaged in other tasks, offering a more efficient alternative to split-screen mode. It is integrated into the taskbar and home screen for a more intuitive experience. This capability could transform Android tablets into effective multitasking devices, allowing users to manage multiple tasks without switching between apps and optimizing screen space on smaller tablets.
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