Android 17 release features Bubbles multitasking

Google releases Android 17 for Pixel phones with new multitasking features

8 verified4 unconfirmed

Google on June 16, 2026 began rolling out Android 17 to its Pixel phones, along with the Wear OS 7 smartwatch update and a Pixel Drop that adds exclusive features. The operating system introduces Bubbles, a multitasking system of floating app windows that can be opened with a long press and organized in a bubble bar. Other user-facing additions include a Screen Reaction mode for recording selfie video during screen recording and a foldable gaming mode with a 50/50 split layout and touchscreen gamepad. The Pixel Drop brings new AI models — Gemini Omni for video editing and Lyria 3 for music generation — as well as AirDrop support for Quick Share on older Pixel devices. Google states that other smartphone manufacturers will issue the Android 17 update throughout 2026. Some features announced at the pre-I/O Android Show are not available in today’s rollout and will arrive later.

What’s verified

Android 17 began rolling out to Google Pixel phones on June 16, 2026.

The update introduces Bubbles, floating app windows that can be opened with a long press and organized in a bubble bar for multitasking.

A Screen Reaction mode allows users to record selfie video while screen recording.

Foldable phones receive a 50/50 split gaming mode with a touchscreen gamepad.

Wear OS 7 is also rolling out, with Google claiming up to 10% improved battery life.

The Pixel Drop includes new AI models: Gemini Omni for video editing and Lyria 3 for music generation.

Quick Share file-sharing now supports AirDrop on Pixel 8a and 9a.

Other manufacturers are expected to issue the Android 17 update throughout 2026.

Not yet confirmed

A "Pixel Glow" lighting feature may appear on future Pixel phones, according to a single report.

A "Continue On" cross-device handoff feature will allow tasks to move from phone to tablet, initially only one direction, per a single source.

The "Mark as Lost" feature in Find Hub was mentioned by one source.

Specific timing for additional features like redesigned emoji, Pause Point wellbeing tool, and Gemini Intelligence has not been confirmed by Google, according to one source.