Whenever Google releases an Android update, its sole purpose is to provide a smooth experience for both developers and users. Google recently officially released its latest Android update, Android 17 Beta 2.
Beta 1 of Android 17 was released some time ago, and this is the second beta in the series, adding even more new features and making necessary improvements and privacy enhancements. Let’s get detailed information about this Android update.
What is Android 17?
First, let’s understand what Android 17 is. This is Google’s next major Android version. This program is being rolled out to testers and developers first. The stable final version of Android 17 beta will be released in mid-2026 or later. The goal of this beta program is to test new features. The beta program also reveals bugs that can be fixed. It also provides APIs and tools.
The Android 17 Beta 2 update is now rolling out to some eligible Pixel devices, and it includes several major changes—multitasking, privacy, user experience, cross-device support, and performance have all been updated.
Android 17 Beta 2 features
Android 17 Beta 2 has following features: –
- Bubble Windowing Mode/Floating Bubbles
The most noticeable feature is Bubble UI or multi-window bubble mode. With this feature, you can long-press any app to open it in a floating bubble. This bubble floats on the screen even while you’re using another app. You can also move it like a small window. This makes multitasking easier.
You can keep your main work file, along with additional files like notes or apps, open in a bubble. This is even more powerful on foldable devices and tablets because the bubble also has a swivel function, giving it a mini desktop-like feel. This feature will work on phones, tablets, and foldables once you install the Android 17 Beta 2 update.
- Handoff API
Handoff API – This is a super cool feature that’s been included in Android for the first time. This feature works similarly to Apple’s Handoff technology. With Handoff technology, you can seamlessly continue a task started on one device on another.
Imagine you’re reading content on your phone and then need to open the same information on your tablet. This makes for a seamless transition. You’ll get a completely continuous experience without having to manually transfer everything. For example, if you’re editing a photo on your phone, you can easily continue editing the same photo on your tablet.
- EyeDropper API
This Android update also introduces a system-level Eyedropper API. This feature allows developers to include a tool in their apps to capture the colour of any pixel on the screen.
And interestingly, it doesn’t require screen capture permission, reducing privacy risks. This is a very helpful tool for designers and those who use creative apps.
- Contacts picker
Android 17 Beta 2 also brings an upgraded Contacts Picker. Previously, when an app accessed contacts, it had access to the entire address book. But that’s no longer the case. Apps will only have access to contact fields you grant permission to. This gives you limited information; they can’t access your personal data; they only receive read-only access, even on limited fields. This feature has been built with privacy code in mind, making your privacy even stronger.
- SMS OTP protection
Misuse of OTP codes and OTP hijacking has become a common issue in today’s digital age. Android 17 Beta 2 introduces Expanded SMS OTP Protection to protect users from this. The way it works is also quite interesting. Apps that don’t receive OTPs are delayed for hours. This prevents unauthorized apps from immediately reading the OTP. Its biggest benefit is that the chances of OTP hijacking are dramatically reduced due to the OTP not being shared.
- Local network privacy controls
Android 17 Beta 2 also adds new permissions for local network access. This means that if an app wants to access local network devices, such as smart TVs, smart lights, or IoT devices, it will need permission. Apps that search for networks in the background without permission will be restricted. This helps prevent unauthorized network spying and tracking.
- Advanced connectivity updates
Android 17 Beta 2 also upgrades connectivity features. Users will get access to technologies like Wi-Fi, UWB, and proximity detection. These features offer greater control, primarily due to app behaviour over network and connectivity aspects.
Android 17 Beta availability on devices
The Android 17 Beta 2 update is currently rolling out to select Google Pixel devices. If you are registered in the Beta testing program, you can install this update via OTA. Eligible devices include (not exhaustive):
- Pixel 10 series
- Pixel 9 series
- Pixel 8 series
- Pixel 7 series
- Pixel 6 series
- Pixel Fold & Pixel Tablet, etc.
Feedback from Beta users on the update
Reaction from beta users and developers has been mixed. Some find the features exciting, some are finding the log bubbles feature inaccurate, and some have also reported bugs and issues, such as Bluetooth problems, shared battery failure, network issues, etc.
Conclusion
So friends, you know how Android 17 Beta 2 is a major stepping stone for the future Android experience. Its main aim is to completely rethink multitasking, take privacy protections to new levels, and introduce cross-device continuity into the Android ecosystem. This update is going to be interesting for both users and developers.
