Google released the first beta of the next version of its smartphone OS, Android 17, on Friday, following an aborted launch earlier in the week.
Beta 1 was supposed to launch on Wednesday, but Google changed the date to "coming soon" at the last minute without further explanation, CNET sister site PCMag reported.
The new Android 17 Beta 1, designed for developers and early adopters with Pixel devices, "prioritizes privacy, security, and refined performance," the company says. The beta is available from Google.
Android 17 Canary will bring improvements such as "professional-grade tools to media and camera apps," with seamless transitions and standardized loudness.
Live Updates on Android 16 (left) versus Android 17 Beta 1 (right): Android 17 Beta 1 now features a larger progress bar and button.
Screenshot by Android Authority/CNETOn Friday, Android Authority shared beta screenshots of Live Updates with a newer, longer progress bar and more prominent buttons. The pictures show that the progress bar now spans the entire tile, and the Exit Navigation button is more prominent.
The Live Updates feature debuted with Android 16 and is designed to provide up-to-date visibility into deliveries and travel times with the use of a progress bar.
The beta will also include new tools to optimize Wi-Fi connectivity and expanded profiles for companion devices.
The company says it expects Canary to hit the Platform Stability milestone in March, which includes the final APIs for app developers, and that the full release would follow a few months after (likely in June, TechAdvisor says).
The beta release precedes the anticipated launch of the budget Pixel 10A phone next week.
