Google rolls out Android 17: New AI tools, Screen Reactions, Gemini upgrades, privacy features and more

Google has started rolling out Android 17, introducing a range of new features aimed at improving productivity, entertainment, gaming, security and overall device performance. The update is arriving first on Pixel devices before expanding to other eligible Android smartphones and tablets throughout 2026.

The company also announced that select advanced devices will receive Gemini Intelligence later this summer, bringing more proactive assistance and AI-powered capabilities to users.

Bubbles feature boosts multitasking

One of the key additions in Android 17 is Bubbles, a multitasking feature that allows applications to run in compact floating windows above other apps.


Users can activate the feature by long-pressing an app icon. On larger-screen devices, bubbles are stored in a dedicated bar at the bottom of the display, enabling quick switching between applications as well as resizing or expanding them to full-screen mode.

Google said the feature is intended to make it easier for users to access maps, notes, tutorials and other content while working across multiple apps.

Screen Reactions simplify content creation

Android 17 introduces Screen Reactions, a new feature that combines screen recording with selfie-camera video capture.

The tool allows users to record their screen while simultaneously appearing in a video overlay, enabling them to add commentary and reactions directly to apps, websites and videos without relying on third-party software or switching between applications.

Gemini adds music generation capabilities

Google has expanded Gemini's creative tools on supported Pixel devices with the addition of music generation.

Users can create original music tracks by describing the type of song they want or by providing images as inspiration. Gemini can generate music complete with lyrics based on those inputs.

Foldable gaming mode arrives

The update introduces a dedicated gaming mode for foldable devices, designed to make better use of available screen space.

The feature employs a 50-50 layout, with gameplay displayed on the upper portion of the screen and a dynamic game controller interface on the lower half. Android 17 also supports native controller remapping for users who connect external gaming controllers.

Google said memory management improvements have helped reduce frame drops and stuttering during graphics-intensive gaming sessions.

Calling features expand to India

Android 17 brings additional call management tools, including the introduction of Manual Call Screen in India.

The feature allows users to screen unknown callers and obtain information before deciding whether to answer incoming calls.

Visual redesign and interface refinements

The operating system further expands the use of blur effects that were introduced in earlier Android versions.

Blurred backgrounds and interface elements are now available in additional areas, including the widget picker, volume controls and power menu, creating a more consistent visual design.

Google has also redesigned settings menus with a more compact layout, allowing more information to be displayed on a single page.

Privacy and security enhancements

Android 17 introduces a new System Contact Picker that enables users to share only selected contacts with applications rather than granting access to their entire contact list.

The update also includes the option to hide app names on the home screen, expanded parental controls across Android devices, dedicated volume controls for digital assistants and additional customisation options for dark mode.

Performance improvements and widget updates

Under the hood, Android 17 introduces app memory limits designed to prevent applications from consuming excessive RAM, helping improve performance and battery efficiency.

The operating system also improves widget support on connected and external displays. Widgets will now automatically adjust based on screen pixel density, ensuring a more consistent appearance across different devices and display sizes.

Pixel devices are receiving additional exclusive updates as part of the Android 17 rollout.