Google has begun rolling out Android 17 to Pixel devices, introducing floating app Bubbles, a dedicated foldable taskbar section and Screen Reactions for creators. The update also enhances privacy with one-time location access, improved approximate-location controls and Lost Mode protections, with Gemini AI features due later this year.
Google has initiated the rollout of Android 17, with Pixel devices receiving the first wave. Other smartphone manufacturers are scheduled to adopt the update over the coming months.
Bubbles let active apps float on screen and stack in a dedicated foldable taskbar section, enhancing multitasking on larger displays. A new Screen Reactions feature enables content creators to record overlay videos directly on their phone screens without external editing apps.
Android 17 introduces one-time location access, broadened approximate-location controls for rural areas and enhanced Lost Mode protections requiring PIN and biometric unlocking. Additional updates include app-specific dark mode, redesigned split-screen interface and more granular hearing-aid audio controls.
Later this year, Google will integrate Gemini intelligence, smarter voice dictation, redesigned emoji and vibe-coded widgets into Android 17. Wear OS devices will also benefit from extended battery life, live updates and future Gemini features on Wear OS 7.
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