- Android 17 will arrive in stable version between June and July 2026, first on Google Pixel devices.
- The update focuses on privacy, security, performance, and better support for large and foldable screens.
- There will be significant improvements for gaming, camera, integrated AI, and possible convergence with ChromeOS via Aluminium OS.
- The Pixel 6 and later models, along with numerous Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO models in Europe, are on the roadmap to receive Android 17.
Android 17 is shaping up to be the major update to Google's mobile ecosystem for 2026, a version that goes far beyond a simple facelift and will affect both everyday users and developers and manufacturers. The new version of the operating system arrives with the codename Cinnamon Bun, with a clear focus on privacy, performance, and better adaptation to all types of devices, from phones and tablets to foldable devices and even laptops.
In Europe and Spain, where Android clearly dominates the market, this update will be especially relevant: most users will eventually use Android 17 on one of their devices, although not all will receive it at the same time. The release schedule, the integrated AI features, the improvements for gaming, and the potential unification with ChromeOS will shape the platform's direction in the coming years.
Android 17 release schedule: key dates
Android 17 has been in development for months. Google confirmed the new version on its developer blog and has been releasing preview versions gradually. As of today, the company's release schedule makes it quite clear when we can expect to use Android 17 on our phones , starting with Pixel devices and continuing with other manufacturers.
Development began with early builds in the Canary channel, where more advanced developers can test experimental features. Instead of releasing two closed Developer Previews as in previous years, Google has integrated these builds into a continuous flow of updates, similar to what it already does with the Chrome browser. This allows changes to reach those who need to test the APIs as soon as possible.
The first developer beta of Android 17 was released on February 13 , followed by a second beta on February 26. Both focused on fine-tuning the system's foundation and beginning to showcase some of the new technical features. Throughout March, Google released further betas and reached Platform Stability, meaning that the APIs and system behavior should no longer change before the final version—a crucial factor for apps to adapt smoothly.
Meanwhile, Google is maintaining its usual public release plan. The open beta , aimed at the general public and not just developers, is scheduled for May, coinciding with the Google I/O 2026 event. It will be then that more users in Spain and Europe will be able to try Android 17 on their Pixel phones without having to resort to advanced tools, with many of the new visual features already active.
The stable version of Android 17 is expected between June and July 2026, with the initial rollout to the Pixel range. Phones from other manufacturers will begin receiving the update in the second half of the year , and in many cases the process will extend into the first months of 2027, especially for mid-range models.
Android 17: codename, focus, and development changes
Internally, Android 17 is codenamed Cinnamon Bun , continuing the tradition of naming major versions after sweets, and uses API level 37, important information for developers but irrelevant for the end user. Beyond this, what's truly significant is the change in approach Google is implementing compared to previous versions.
While Android 16 focused more on visible changes and interface tweaks, Android 17 aims to be a more mature version: less of an aesthetic revolution and more improvements in privacy, security, and stability . The goal is for the system to consume fewer resources, behave more predictably, and better adapt to the vast array of screen formats available today, including foldable devices and large tablets.
Another significant change lies in the development timeline itself. In recent years, Google had structured each version into three main phases (Developer Preview, Betas, and Platform Stability) culminating in a final release. With Android 17, the Developer Preview phase is now integrated into the Canary channel, which receives builds more frequently. For the ecosystem, this translates into a faster pace of testing and bug fixes , while betas for the general public are concentrated into fewer months.
In addition, the company is working on a new release strategy that aims for two major updates per year: a large stable release in the summer and a second major revision toward the end of the year, partially replacing the old QPR (Quarterly Platform Releases). This strategy seeks to provide developers with clearer stability windows and reduce update fragmentation.
Technical updates and performance improvements
Android 17 arrives with a host of internal changes designed to make the phone run more smoothly and consume fewer resources. Google has tweaked memory management, background processes, and CPU usage so that apps don't restart as easily when changing screen orientation, connecting accessories, or switching between tasks.
The first betas have shown improvements to configuration changes , with fewer full app restarts when rotating the screen or switching from windowed to full-screen mode. This is especially noticeable in complex apps like banking, e-commerce, and productivity tools, which will no longer "lose" their state as frequently.
There's also significant work being done on energy consumption. Android 17 includes a more aggressive and intelligent memory management system , capable of detecting processes that abuse resources in the background and limiting their impact on battery and CPU. All of this is achieved without abruptly closing applications that the user needs to have readily available.
On devices with large, foldable screens, the multitasking system is improved with a new bubble bar and more consistent multi-window behavior. Google wants to make working with multiple apps simultaneously less clunky , bringing it closer to the experience of a traditional desktop.
Finally, Android 17 introduces improvements in input hardware support, with better response for touchpads and game controllers , something that will be noticeable both on Android laptops and on tablets connected to keyboards and on gaming-oriented devices.
Interface, Material 3 Expressive and new control center
Visually, Android 17 focuses on evolution rather than a radical departure. The interface is based on Material 3 Expressive , a more visually appealing version of the current design language, featuring transparency and blur effects very much in line with what Apple offers with its "glass" look or Xiaomi with HyperOS.
The UI is starting to move away from solid, opaque backgrounds in many system menus. The volume bar, for example, is now translucent: when it's pulled down over an application, you can glimpse the content directly beneath it thanks to a blurring effect. The same applies to certain full settings panels, power menus, and other system elements.
On the home screen, Android 17 maintains the idea of more integrated icons and wallpaper , but takes a further step in color consistency: icons must respect the accent color defined by the system, which helps the overall look less chaotic, especially when mixing apps from many different developers.
Another highlight is the new control center. Android 17 clearly separates notifications from quick controls. Swiping in from the left side of the top bar opens the notification panel, which also integrates the Gemini-powered summaries. Swiping in from the right reveals a redesigned control center with a frosted glass effect and customizable, resizable buttons.
This approach is reminiscent of what Apple implemented some time ago in iOS and iPadOS, but with Android's own touch: more room to rearrange shortcuts, change their size, and decide which functions are displayed in the foreground.
Camera, video and new RAW format14
Image and video capture also benefits from Android 17. Google has introduced smoother transitions between photo and video modes , avoiding the abrupt cuts that are still noticeable on many devices when switching between modes within the camera app.
In terms of video, the system includes support for VVC (Versatile Video Coding, also known as H.266), a codec that aims to offer similar quality to H.265 with a smaller file size . For streaming services, content creation, or sending videos over networks, this translates to less data and storage consumption without significantly compromising quality. If you want to optimize your recordings, you can find out how to improve video quality on Android.
One of the most striking new features for advanced photographers is the introduction of the RAW14 format at the system level. While most current mobile phones capture in 10- or 12-bit RAW, Android 17 will allow capturing 14-bit RAW images per pixel , bringing the color depth and dynamic range closer to what some professional cameras offer.
In addition, Google has redesigned its screen recording tool. It now appears as a more discreet, floating pill that even allows you to draw or annotate the screen in real time . For tutorial creators, trainers, or anyone recording explanations on their phone, this is a practical improvement that eliminates the need for external apps.
Mobile gaming: controller remapping and virtual controller
Android 17 arrives with a clear intention to cater to those who use their mobile phones for gaming. One of the most celebrated features will be native support for controller remapping . In practice, this means that directly from the system settings, users will be able to remap the buttons of an Xbox, PlayStation, or other compatible controller, without having to install third-party tools.
This remapping feature allows you to adjust which button does what in each game, which is useful for titles that don't offer ideal support for physical controllers. Furthermore, Android 17 includes a virtual controller function that translates screen taps into physical controller signals , making it possible to use a traditional controller even with games designed exclusively for touchscreens.
In terms of performance, improvements in memory and CPU management also benefit gaming. Fewer background processes and more refined resource management result in fewer brief freezes or micro-stutters in demanding games, a welcome improvement in competitive or graphically intensive titles.
In markets like Spain, where mid-range and high-end Android devices are widespread and mobile gaming is increasingly important, these improvements can make a real difference. Any studio that updates its games soon to take advantage of Android 17 on large and foldable screens will have an advantage in offering an experience closer to that of a handheld console.
Privacy, security, and changes to app installation
One of the major areas of focus in Android 17 is security. Google has particularly strengthened the handling of network connections : the system will block the transmission of unencrypted data from applications by default, requiring the use of secure protocols. Advanced cryptographic standards , such as HPKE hybrid cryptography, have also been incorporated to further strengthen communications.
The beta versions have introduced new features such as a protection system against the hijacking of OTP codes sent via SMS. Third-party applications other than the default messaging app will have a three-hour delay before accessing these messages, making it more difficult for malware or malicious apps to steal two-factor authentication codes .
Android 17 also rebalances the user experience between freedom and security controls. Until now, it was relatively easy to install any APK file downloaded from the internet, albeit at the risk. Starting with this version, Google will require developers to verify their identity before their APKs can be installed, even if obtained from outside the Play Store.
This measure aims to reduce the spread of malware and fraudulent applications, but it's generating concern among some in the community, as it could complicate matters for alternative app stores like F-Droid or independent projects . Android's open philosophy remains, but it's somewhat more restricted under the guise of security.
In addition, diagnostic tools have been added that allow you to see more detailed information about the battery, such as the number of charge cycles, the cell's manufacturing date, and its health percentage. This helps you know when it's time to change the battery or the phone , something that until now required external apps or hidden menus.
Integrated AI, Gemini and AppFunctions
Artificial intelligence is becoming even more deeply integrated into the core of the system with Android 17. Google is taking Gemini to a new level, not just as an assistant or chatbot, but as a component that can coordinate actions within applications . This is where AppFunctions comes in, a framework that allows apps to expose specific functions that can be executed by AI using natural language.
In practice, this means a user could ask the assistant to perform a complex action within an app without opening it or navigating menus. For example, booking something, preparing a shipment, or configuring an advanced setting. Gemini would interpret the command, coordinate the steps, and execute them in the background using the functions exposed by the application.
The key is that many of these capabilities run locally whenever possible, reducing constant reliance on the cloud. This opens the door to a more contextual system, capable of anticipating certain common user tasks (such as usage routines or consumption settings) without requiring direct intervention.
At the same time, Android 17 aims to make AI less intrusive in daily life. After a period in which everything seemed to be labeled as AI, the goal now is for these features to be integrated more discreetly, without overwhelming users with suggestions, and allowing them to decide when to use Gemini and when not.
Universal clipboard and multi-device experiences
Another area where Android 17 aims to close the gap with Apple's ecosystem is in the cross-device experience. Google is preparing a universal clipboard between mobile and PC , so that what is copied on one device can be pasted almost instantly on another, without having to configure third-party solutions.
This feature aims to offer Android and computers a similar seamless experience to that already available between iPhones and Macs. This way, copying text on your phone and pasting it on a laptop that shares Google credentials should be a natural process, without any intermediate steps or additional applications.
In addition, Android 17 introduces APIs like Handoff for state resumption between devices . The idea is that, with developer support, a task can be started on a mobile device and continued on a tablet or other compatible device without losing context. This can be especially useful in productivity, education, and professional tools.
Work is also underway on Wi-Fi proximity detection and finer support for user profiles and connected devices, so that the Android ecosystem behaves more consistently when there are multiple devices in the same house or work environment.
Aluminium OS and the possible end of ChromeOS
Aside from what's already confirmed, Android 17 arrives surrounded by rumors about a project called Aluminium OS. The idea, according to leaks, would be to unify Android and ChromeOS into a single platform capable of adapting from mobile phones to laptops, changing its interface depending on the device type or usage mode.
Today, Google maintains two parallel developments: Android for mobile phones, tablets, watches, and cars, and ChromeOS for laptops and entry-level devices, widely used in education and some corporate environments. Consolidating efforts into a single system would simplify development and updates , as well as facilitate management for companies that already use both systems in parallel.
Reports suggest that this unification would allow Android to offer a complete desktop interface when used on a large monitor or laptop, with windows, a taskbar, and keyboard shortcuts, without requiring external solutions. This would be a much more usable desktop mode than previous attempts and a direct alternative to what Samsung DeX currently offers.
Another important aspect of Aluminium OS would be the deep integration of Gemini into the system, with capabilities designed for high-end devices and professional use. However, it's worth noting that, for now, Google hasn't officially confirmed Aluminium OS , its exact release date, or its level of integration with Android 17. What is clearly visible in the betas is a growing focus on mobile-PC convergence.
Pixel phones compatible with Android 17
As always, Google's own phones will be the first to receive Android 17 through the Android Beta program, and later via the stable OTA update. The list of models that can already test the beta or that have been confirmed to receive the new version includes all Pixel phones from the Pixel 6 family onward.
These include devices such as the Pixel 6, 6 Pro, and 6a; Pixel 7, 7 Pro, and 7a; Pixel 8, 8 Pro, and 8a; as well as the foldable Pixel Fold and Pixel 9 Pro Fold models, the Pixel Tablet, and the recent Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 ranges in their various versions. For those who own one of these devices in Spain, signing up for the Android Beta program is as simple as accessing the official Android Beta website with their Google account, registering the device, and waiting for the OTA update to arrive.
However, Google emphasizes that these beta versions are not intended for your primary, everyday phone. They may contain significant bugs, compatibility issues with banking apps, or performance problems, so it's best to use them on a test or secondary device , especially in the early stages.
Android 17 on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO: HyperOS 4
In the Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO market, Android 17 will arrive integrated into the next major version of their custom interface, HyperOS 4. The Chinese company typically combines each HyperOS version with two different Android bases, so its newest phones debut the latest base , while other models continue with the previous one.
This approach was already seen with HyperOS 1, combining Android 13 and Android 14. The pattern has been repeated with subsequent versions: HyperOS 2 with Android 14 and 15, HyperOS 3 with Android 15 and 16, and all indications are that HyperOS 4 will coexist with Android 16 on some phones and Android 17 on the most recent ones . Thus, even if a device is not compatible with Android 17, it can still receive at least one more major HyperOS update.
Looking at information from the Android Enterprise Recommended (AER) program and Xiaomi's official end-of-life lists, a roadmap emerges with nearly a hundred potential models from Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO that are within the support period for new versions. This list includes high-end models like the Xiaomi 17, 17 Ultra, and 15 Ultra , the Xiaomi 14 and 13 series, the CIVI family, the MIX Fold and MIX Flip, as well as numerous tablets such as the Xiaomi Pad 7 and 8 in their various versions.
On the Redmi side, the lineup includes series like the Redmi K90, K80, K70, the Redmi Turbo range, and multiple Redmi Note 14 and 15 models, in addition to several standard Redmi phones and budget tablets like the Redmi Pad 2 and its variants. Within the POCO ecosystem, the upcoming F7 and F8 generations, the X6 and X7 series, the M7 and M8 families, and some POCO Pad tablets stand out, all of which are highly likely to receive HyperOS 4 based on Android 17 or, failing that, Android 16.
There is also a smaller group of Xiaomi and Redmi devices that, according to the documentation, will be upgraded to HyperOS 4 but only based on Android 16, without jumping to Android 17. This indicates that they are already at the limit of their cycle of major system updates, although they will continue to receive the new interface for a while longer.
Compatibility and deployment with other manufacturers
Beyond Google and Xiaomi, Android 17 will be rolling out to other leading European manufacturers such as Samsung, Motorola, OnePlus, OPPO, realme, and Nothing. Motorola, for example, has already launched its own program to test Android 17 Beta on specific models, such as the Motorola Edge (2025) in the United States, the Moto G57 in Europe and other EMEA markets, and the Moto G57 Power in India and surrounding regions.
Samsung is usually one of the fastest to update after the Pixel, at least in its high-end range. Although there isn't a definitive official list yet, it's reasonable to expect that series like the Galaxy S24, S25, and S26 , the foldable Fold7 and Flip7, and other recent models will be included in the first wave of Android 17, likely with the corresponding adapted version of One UI.
Something similar is expected in the Xiaomi ecosystem outside of the main brand: the Xiaomi 17, 15, and 14 series, along with many current Redmi and POCO models, are likely to be among the first in Europe to receive the update. For brands like OnePlus, OPPO, and Realme, high-end and upper mid-range devices released in the last two years are also usually included on the update list , although the specific timelines depend on each manufacturer and carrier.
In any case, the experience of previous years indicates that the bulk of Android 17 updates in Europe will be concentrated between the end of 2026 and the first half of 2027 , with older models within the support period receiving the update later.
How to test the Android 17 beta and how to install the final version
Anyone with a compatible Pixel device who wants to get ahead can sign up for the Android 17 beta on the official Google website. The process is relatively simple: just go to the Android Beta page, log in with the account associated with your phone, select your eligible device, and enroll in the program . The beta will then arrive via an over-the-air (OTA) update within hours.
Once the beta is installed, the device will continue to receive new test builds for the duration of the program. If you wish to leave the beta program at any point, you can unregister your device from the same website; depending on the stage of the cycle, this may mean reverting to a stable version and potentially losing data , so it's advisable to back up your data before making any significant changes.
For users who don't want to experiment, there's nothing special to do when the final version is released. Android 17 will appear as a regular update within the settings menu of every compatible phone, whether it's a Pixel or from another manufacturer, according to the rollout schedule set by each brand and, in some cases, the carriers.
From there, the installation will be carried out like any other major update: download, restart and automatic migration of data and applications, without the user having to worry about additional technical steps.
Given this scenario, Android 17 stands out as a key version for the ecosystem: it combines profound improvements in security and performance , tangible new features in interface, camera and gaming, a step forward in the multi-device experience and a roadmap of updates that will affect millions of users in Spain and Europe over the next few years, both on Pixel devices and on the main brands in the market.
