Google released Android 17. It brings redesigned multitasking and deeper AI integration

Google has started distributing the stable version of the Android 17 operating system. The update arrives somewhat unexpectedly already in June and is being gradually rolled out starting today for compatible Pixel series smartphones. Google is thus changing its traditional schedule, bringing the new generation of the system significantly earlier compared to autumn.

New Multitasking and Productivity Tools

Among the most significant innovations in Android 17 is undoubtedly the significantly redesigned multitasking. Google is evolving the long-known concept of floating bubbles. Within them, virtually any application can be launched in the latest version of the Android OS. Applications launched in this way then appear within a floating bar, which allows the user to easily and quickly switch between these applications.

An open floating window with an application then looks similar to what we currently see with some chat applications. That is, a floating window, only this time with the entire application and the ability to adjust the size of this window. In fact, it could be said that it is ultimately a combination of floating chat bubbles and floating windows, which the Android system has supported for many years. With this evolution of multitasking, Google aims to improve the user experience of working with multiple applications simultaneously.

Something for Mobile Gamers with Foldable Phones

If you are at least an occasional mobile gamer and also own a foldable smartphone, you might be pleased with another new feature. Google has integrated a gaming mode specifically adapted for this type of device into Android 17. Thanks to it, you can split the screen into two halves and display gamepad controls on the bottom half, while the game itself runs on the top half. This layout then resembles the legendary Nintendo DS, only naturally without the bottom display and only with virtual controls.

Security and Parental Control

You can now grant applications only temporary access to your location, or share only selected contacts with them instead of the entire address book. If you newly mark your phone as lost via the Find My Device hub, it will require biometric authentication to unlock. So, if a potential thief knew your password, it would be useless to them.

Real-time protection has also been improved, so Android 17 should better resist suspicious applications and scams. The maximum number of PIN entry attempts to access the phone has also been reduced, and the waiting time after exceeding this number of attempts has been extended.

As part of the update, Google brings improvements to parental controls, which will allow better management of children’s screen time. Key new features include improved remote app approval, the ability to set different time limits for specific days of the week, and also to set a time during which the phone will be locked – for example, overnight.

Deeper Gemini AI Integration

It wouldn’t be a new version of the operating system if we didn’t also see some new features in the field of artificial intelligence. Android 17 naturally integrates the latest Google Gemini artificial intelligence models, with AI features now integrated even deeper into the very core of the system. This then manifests itself in better contextual search and smarter suggestions across applications and the system.

Android 17 Also Accompanied by June Pixel Drop

Along with the new version of the Android operating system, Google also released the June Pixel Drop. This Pixel Drop brings a small revolution in mobile creation thanks to the integration of advanced Gemini Omni and Lyria 3 models. Users can generate and finely edit videos using text commands, create their own talking AI avatars, or compose their own musical tracks, including vocals.

Content creators, in particular, may appreciate the Screen Reactions feature, which allows recording screen activity and simultaneously embedding a live reaction from the front selfie camera into the video – without the need for additional editing or further adjustments. Additionally, Quick Share compatibility with Apple’s AirDrop has been added for Pixel 8a and 9a.

Availability

The new Android 17 is being gradually rolled out starting June 16th for Google Pixel 6 smartphones and newer. Simultaneously, Pixels will also receive the aforementioned June Pixel Drop package. Google has also released the AOSP source code for the stable version of Android 17. We will see which manufacturers will be among the first to follow Google with updates for their phones.

Has the new Android 17 arrived for you yet?

Sources: techcrunch.com, blog.google.com