Google has launched the Android 17 Beta for all Tensor-powered Pixel devices, introducing new features, professional-grade camera tools, and mandatory large-screen app support
Google released the Android 17 Beta on February 13, following a brief delay from the initially planned February 11 launch. This first public beta skips the traditional Developer Preview, offering Canary builds that provide faster updates and improved stability for testers.
Supported devices
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The Android 17 Beta is compatible with all Tensor-powered Pixel smartphones, from the Pixel 6 series (2021) to the latest Pixel 10 models, including Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet. The Pixel 6 series will receive its final major Android update with Android 17, with support ending in October 2026. The upcoming Pixel 10a is also expected to support the beta shortly after its launch.
Installation methods
Users can install the beta through the Android Beta Program by opting in via google.com/android/beta, checking for updates in Settings, or manually sideloading OTA images using ADB and Recovery mode. Sideloading requires unlocking the bootloader or enabling OEM Unlock in developer settings.
Key features and updates
Android 17 introduces mandatory large-screen app compatibility, requiring apps targeting API level 37 to support all orientations across tablets, foldables, and desktop environments. Camera and media improvements include Versatile Video Coding (VVC/H.266), enabling better quality at lower storage costs. Performance optimisations, generational garbage collection, background audio hardening, and custom notification view restrictions reduce memory usage and enhance stability.
Visual updates include a redesigned Pixel launcher search bar with transparent background, AI mode integration, updated Control Center brightness icon, darker location indicators, and standardised Gemini screen shrink animations. Security improvements include deprecation of the android:usesCleartextTraffic attribute and introduction of HPKE hybrid cryptography tools. Wi-Fi and VoIP APIs now offer smarter device detection and proximity features.
Developer support and roadmap
Google has replaced traditional previews with a continuous Android Canary channel, giving developers daily updates without manual flashing. Android 17 will reach Platform Stability in March 2026, with final SDK and NDK APIs available before the planned June public release. Quarterly beta updates are expected through 2026, including planned app-breaking changes in Q2 and a minor SDK update in Q4.
With Android 17 Beta, Pixel users can access cutting-edge features, enhanced camera and media capabilities, and large-screen app support, while developers gain ample time to optimise apps ahead of the final release.
Published: 14 Feb 2026, 08:28 pm IST
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