In brief, the primary Android 17 beta is chock stuffed with issues that will curiosity builders and modders, however there’s little in the best way of user-facing modifications proper now.
Android 17 launch schedule
Google has made some notable modifications to the way it releases Android updates, and Android 17 continues the pattern. Like final 12 months, there can be two Android 17 releases in 2026. The primary one, coming in Q2, would be the extra vital of the 2. It should embody a raft of latest APIs, behavioral modifications, and have updates. This cut up launch setup was carried out to higher align with when main OEMs launch new gadgets, however Android 17 availability nonetheless focuses primarily on Pixels. Google’s telephones obtain fast updates, however everybody else has to attend for OEMs to roll out updates over the next weeks or months.
On the finish of the 12 months, one other model (you’ll be able to consider it as Android 17.1 although Google doesn’t give it a reputation) will change into out there on supported gadgets. This “minor SDK launch” will embody some API and have modifications, however Google doesn’t have any particulars at the moment.
Earlier than we get to that, Google plans to launch a second beta launch in March. The corporate says Beta 2 will embody closing APIs, permitting builders to finish testing and roll out updates. Builders could have “a number of months” to get that work carried out earlier than the ultimate model hits Pixels.
In 2025, Google additionally modified the best way it updates the open supply elements of Android. Somewhat than common code dumps, Google now solely updates the Android Open Supply Venture (AOSP) twice yearly, within the second and fourth quarters, when new variations are launched. That makes it tougher to know what to anticipate from upcoming variations of Android, however Google insists that is extra environment friendly.
If you wish to take a look at Android 17 immediately, you’ll want a Pixel system. It helps the Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel 8, Pixel 9, and Pixel 10 generations. The Pixel pill and unique Pixel Fold are additionally included. Different telephone makers could launch beta builds within the weeks forward, however it’s a Google-only occasion for now. You’ll be able to choose in to get an OTA to Android 17 on the beta program web site.
