It’s been a rough start for Android 17, with Google sharing that it would arrive any day on Pixel devices, announcing the launch of Android 17 Beta 1, and then subsequently canceling it, leaving many confused. Well, this time, Beta 1 is really making its way to Pixel devices. There’s no Developer Preview here, with Google going straight to beta with its new release strategy. If you’re someone who loves to experiment with Google’s latest, this release should be exciting news.
The next big step for Android
There has been a lot of anticipation for Android 17, and it’s expected to be a huge release. Although there isn’t a solid date for when the stable release will arrive, this new way of releasing Android is sure to expedite the process when compared to the previous model. However, Google does have a pretty solid plan in place for developers, which has all been detailed on its blog.
Google highlights some of the key changes, sharing that adaptability is a priority here. This means that developers will need to ensure that apps can work on a range of Android devices, with Google stating “users expect their apps to work everywhere—whether multitasking on a tablet, unfolding a device, or using a desktop windowing environment—and they expect the UI to fill the space and respect their device posture.”
In addition to the above, Google is making the usual changes that will help improve the daily performance of Android. There will also be improvements made to the behavior of cameras, general privacy and security updates, along with enhancements to connectivity. If you’re curious about any of this, you can always enroll in the beta program to start testing Android 17.
Android 17 Beta 1 is available for all Pixel 6 and newer devices. It will also be available for the long-forgotten Pixel Tablet. Google has also released OTA images if you need them. There’s build CP21.260116.011.A1 for the Pixel 6 and Pixel 7, and build CP21.260116.011.B1 for all other Pixel devices.
If you don’t have a supported Pixel device and want to explore what’s new, you can always try Android 17 using an emulator. Again, this is just the beginning. We’ve heard and expect some big things, so we can’t wait to see how Android 17 develops. Those with devices from other brands should also keep an eye out. There’s a pretty good chance that betas for Android 17 will arrive as well.
