Google I/O is almost here, and earlier than expected, Google released the Android 17 beta for Pixel owners. Developers and enthusiasts can now test the latest features before the full release later this year. Enrolling in the Android Beta Program is straightforward—Pixel users simply sign up to receive the OTA update. Compatible devices include everything from the Pixel 6 series to the Pixel 10. The stable version will roll out in the coming months, and Samsung Galaxy users can also look forward to the One UI 9 beta based on Android 17. Below are the nine major new features coming to Android 17.
Gemini Intelligence and More AI Features
Unsurprisingly, Google Gemini is a cornerstone of Android 17. The introduction of Gemini Intelligence bundles several AI capabilities, such as agentic features that allow the AI to perform tasks like ordering an Uber or booking appointments. Gemini will also be integrated into Chrome for summarizing web pages and autofill to automatically enter usernames and passwords. Two new AI functions are Rambler, which cleans up voice dictation by removing filler words like "um" and "like," and Create My Widget, which lets users describe a widget to Gemini and have it built on the fly—covering basics like countdown clocks, weather, and stock information.
Emoji Overhaul
Google has redesigned its nearly 4,000 emojis with a new 3D style called Noto 3D. The goal is to make emojis feel more lively and impactful, adding a touch of physicality compared to the previous flat look. Initially, the new emojis will be exclusive to Pixel devices and appear in Gboard, YouTube, and Gmail. Other Android phones will eventually get them, but no timeline has been set. Google also acknowledged the beloved blob emoji that was retired in 2017.
Pause Point
To combat doomscrolling, Android 17 introduces Pause Point, a Digital Wellbeing feature that intercepts users when they open distracting apps. After identifying which apps cause distraction, Pause Point prompts a 10-second breathing exercise and suggests a more productive activity. Users can still proceed after the timer, but the feature is designed to encourage mindful app usage. It also includes a built-in app timer and is difficult to disable, requiring a settings deep dive and a full reboot.
Screen Reactions and Better Instagram Support
Screen Reactions is a new built-in recording mode that lets users capture both their screen and selfie camera simultaneously to create reaction videos without third-party tools. It rolls out to Pixel devices later in 2026. Additionally, Android 17 improves native Instagram support with Ultra HDR capture and playback, video stabilization, and night sight integration for better low-light photos. Instagram's Edits app gains AI-powered smart enhance for upscaling and sound separation to clean up audio.
Wider Support for AirDrop
Google continues to bridge the gap between Android and iOS by expanding Quick Share compatibility with Apple's AirDrop. After initial support on Pixel 10 and Pixel 9, Android 17 extends AirDrop-like functionality to devices from Samsung, Oppo, OnePlus, Vivo, Xiaomi, and Honor. Phones without direct compatibility can still generate a QR code for file transfers. Quick Share will also be integrated into more Android apps, including WhatsApp.
Easier Switching Between Android and iOS
Google and Apple have collaborated to simplify platform switching. Android 17 includes a built-in transfer tool that works similarly to iOS 26.3's "Transfer to Android" feature. Users can place their iPhone next to an Android phone to transfer photos, contacts, apps, and even eSIM. The process can also preserve home screen layouts. Pixel and Samsung Galaxy phones will get this feature first later this year.
Better Protection from Scammers Spoofing Your Bank
Android 17 enhances scam protection by automatically ending calls from numbers that spoof legitimate banks. Using queries to bank apps on the device, the system verifies incoming numbers. If a match fails, the call is terminated before the user ever sees it. This feature will initially work with select international banks and will be backward compatible to Android 11, though Android 17 users get it first.
Full Android Auto Overhaul
Android Auto receives a major update with Android 17. The UI now scales to any screen size, including circular or oddly shaped displays, and adopts Material 3 theming with widgets. For the first time, Android Auto supports native video playback, aimed at EV drivers during charging, with support from 11 automakers like BMW, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, and Mercedes-Benz. Gemini Intelligence automates in-car tasks, and Google Maps introduces Immersive Navigation with a 3D view, competing with Apple CarPlay Ultra. The new Ask Maps feature allows for more complex AI-powered queries.
Additional Security Updates
Android 17 brings numerous security enhancements. Live Threat Detection uses on-device AI to monitor app behavior for suspicious activity like unauthorized SMS forwarding or misuse of accessibility features. Google Chrome will analyze APK downloads against known malware databases when Safe Browsing is enabled. Lost devices in Find My require both PIN and biometrics to mark as found, and a new one-time location permission lets users grant precise location for a single session without repeat prompts. Under-the-hood improvements include networking security updates and enhancements to Android Compute Core, ensuring the platform remains secure against evolving threats.
Source: SlashGear News