Google has started rolling out Android 17 Beta 2 for eligible Pixel devices enrolled in the Android Beta programme. Earlier this month, the company released the first beta version, focusing on performance, a smoother user experience, and improved efficiency. With the second beta update, Google has added new features along with enhanced scam protection. The company aims to achieve platform stability by the middle of next month.
Android 17 Beta 2: Key Features and Changes
In the Android Developers blog, Google confirmed the second beta build for supported Pixel smartphones. The update brings several improvements to core functions, privacy controls, system UI, and overall performance.
App Bubbles for Multitasking
With Android 17 Beta 2, users can now create floating bubbles for apps. To enable the feature, they need to long-press an app icon in the pinned taskbar. These bubbles open app pages in a multi-window format, making multitasking and app management easier. Users can move the bubbles anywhere on the screen. Google also plans to expand this feature to tablets, smartphones, and foldable devices running Android 17.
New System-Level EyeDropper API
Google has introduced a system-level EyeDropper API for developers. Using this tool, apps can select a colour from any pixel on the screen. Importantly, the feature does not require sensitive screen-capture permissions, which improves user privacy.
Redesigned Contacts Picker
Android 17 Beta 2 includes a new contacts picker. It provides temporary, read-only access to specific contact fields based on user requests. As a result, apps no longer need broad contact permissions, improving privacy protection.
Handoff API for Easy Device Switching
The update also includes a Handoff API. It allows users to continue a task on another Android device from where they left off. For example, a user can start reading on a phone and later continue on a tablet. The feature works similarly to Apple’s Handoff, which enables smooth transitions between iPhone, iPad, and MacBook devices.
Expanded SMS OTP Protection
Google has expanded SMS OTP protection in Android 17 Beta 2 to cover all OTP messages in order to prevent OTP hijacking. Apps without WebOTP access will now receive OTP data only after a three-hour delay from the time the message arrives.
With these changes, Android 17 Beta 2 focuses on improving multitasking, developer tools, cross-device continuity, and overall user security.