Google rolled out Android 17 Beta 2, adding Bubbles, a floating‑window multitasking feature for Pixel 6 and newer devices enrolled in the beta program. Released just two weeks after the first beta, the update lets users convert apps into draggable overlays that stay visible across tasks, addressing demand for better ways to manage messaging, controls, and reference tools without switching screens.
Why it matters: Bubbles turns any app into a persistent window that floats above the home screen. Users long‑press an app icon to activate it. The window stays visible while you browse, check email, or join video calls, and on tablets and foldables a bubble bar docks in the taskbar for instant access. However, current support appears to target devices with larger screens like Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold, while standard phones still await broader implementation—editors testing on a Pixel 7 with Android 17 Beta 2 could not locate the Bubbles feature.
What ships in this update: The build merges the "Accounts" and "Backup" settings sections into a single "Accounts & backup" item. Location, camera, and microphone usage indicators in the quick‑settings shade now feature more noticeable icons. A new system contact picker interface ensures apps can access only user‑approved contact fields, tightening privacy. Developers also gain an EyeDropper API that captures pixel colors without needing screen‑recording permission, streamlining UI development work.
Device compatibility: The beta supports Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro, 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, 8, 8 Pro, 8a, 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a, 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, and 10 Pro Fold. However, it remains unclear whether the Bubbles feature will work on regular smartphones or if it's intended only for tablets and foldables—some phone models don't currently display the Bubbles UI, suggesting a phased rollout prioritizing larger‑screen devices.
What happens next: Google is expected to expand phone support and deliver stability fixes as it prepares the stable Android 17 launch later in 2025. The update also addresses a number of bugs and issues from Android 17 Beta 1. Users can enroll through the Android Beta Program page or flash the over‑the‑air image, though flashing wipes local data.
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