Android 17 Released: Explore New Features, Compatible Models & Installation Guide

On Tuesday, June 16, Google began deploying Android 17. This update paves the way for Gemini Intelligence, expected to launch on high-end devices by summer 2026. As usual, Pixel devices are the first to receive this update.

Key Features of Android 17

Android 17 focuses on multitasking, security, and customization. Let’s explore the major updates included in this software release.

Using Bubbles for Easy App Access

The Bubbles feature allows any application to be turned into a floating window that overlays the screen. A long press on the app icon activates the bubble, which can then be freely moved, resized, or maximized. Users can pin up to five applications at the same time. On foldable devices and larger screens, a dedicated bar at the bottom of the screen groups these bubbles together.

Enhanced Security Against Theft

Android 17 introduces several security enhancements. The “Mark as Lost” feature in Find Hub now requires biometric confirmation to unlock the device. Essentially, a thief with the PIN code cannot access phone data or disable location tracking.

Google also reduces the number of attempts allowed for entering the code and increases the time between each unsuccessful attempt. Additionally, it is now possible to grant temporary access to precise location and to share only specific contacts with an app, rather than the entire contact list.

Screen Reactions for Content Creators

Android 17 natively incorporates a screen recording feature with the overlay of the front camera. It allows users to film their reactions over what is happening on the screen without the need for a green screen or a third-party app. This feature is aimed at social media users who frequently share their reactions to videos, websites, or trending apps.

Other Updates in Android 17

The update also brings several secondary improvements focused on personalization and performance:

• Gaming mode for foldable devices: a 50/50 layout with the game area on top and a dynamic controller at the bottom, plus native remapping of controller buttons.
• RAM management: Android 17 sets memory limits per application to reduce slowdowns and battery consumption.
• Home screen customization: an option to hide application names under the icons.
• Assistant volume control: a dedicated setting, independent from the general volume.
• Dark theme: app-by-app control to enable or disable extended dark mode.
• Separate network buttons: Wi-Fi and mobile data shortcuts are once again two distinct buttons in quick settings.

List of Compatible Smartphones

Pixels are the first to receive Android 17. The eligible models include:

• Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a
• Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a
• Pixel Fold
• Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a
• Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, and 9a
• Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold, and 10a
• Pixel Tablet

The update will be available on other manufacturers later in the year. Samsung will deploy it as One UI 9 on the Galaxy S23 and higher, Galaxy Z Flip 5 and above, Galaxy A24 and above, and the Tab S9 series. OnePlus will bring Android 17 starting with the OnePlus 11.

How to Install Android 17

The installation process is the same across all compatible Pixel models:

• Open the Settings app on the smartphone.
• Scroll down to the System section and enter it.
• Select Software Updates.
• If the update is available, tap on Download and Install.
• Once the download is complete, restart the device to finalize the installation.