Google starts rolling out Android 17 to Pixel phones: Check eligibility and what’s new

Google has begun the rollout of Android 17, the latest stable update for compatible Pixel smartphones. This update is packed with innovative features, significant enhancements in AI capabilities, and a refined user interface. Remarkably, this launch is happening two months ahead of the usual schedule, marking one of the swiftest Android updates to date. Pixel phone owners are encouraged to verify their device’s eligibility for this upgrade and explore the fresh offerings. Among the standout features of Android 17 is the introduction of Bubble apps. This function allows any app to manifest as a small, movable icon, reminiscent of chat heads. Users can easily activate this by pressing and holding an app icon on the home screen, selecting the new Bubble option, and the app will float above other applications. Larger devices, such as tablets or foldables, will benefit from a new Bubble Bar located at the bottom-right corner for easier management of these floating icons. In terms of customization, Android 17 offers users the ability to hide app names on their home screens, creating a sleek and uncluttered aesthetic. This can be done via the Wallpaper & style settings by toggling off the 'Show app names' option. Additionally, the update introduces various visual enhancements including blurred backgrounds and translucent effects on widgets, the volume panel, and the power-off menu. Users can also adjust the size of menus for a more compact appearance. Privacy is a significant focus of this update. Android 17 enhances user control over privacy settings with a new system contact picker, allowing users to determine which third-party applications can access their contacts. It also clarifies location permission choices, facilitating temporary, precise location sharing and improving the accuracy of approximate location settings. Other features include Screen Reactions, which enable users to record selfie videos during screen recording sessions, and the Gemini Omni tool, which enhances video creation and editing capabilities using text, images, and video prompts. While the initial rollout is for Pixel devices, Android 17 is also set to reach a variety of other Android devices from brands like Samsung, OnePlus, OPPO, Honor, and Xiaomi, with beta versions already in circulation.