Google Rolls Out First Android 17 Beta Update With Performance Optimisation Tools: Features Compatible Models

The first public beta of Android 17 was released by Google on Friday, giving users and developers a very early look at the next big version of its mobile operating system. Specifically, the update introduces a variety of refinements on performance, privacy and developer tools according to the tech giant that is based in Mountain View. Google also highlighted a “deep shift” in the way new releases are introduced to the developer community, replacing the traditional “Developer Preview” with ‘A continuous Canary channel of its own kind.

Android 17 Beta 1 Update: What’s New

Google said that Android 17 still ‘has its focus on performance optimisation and smoother user experiences’. It includes under-the-hood improvements to better background task management and increased power efficiency in the first beta of . But the tech giant says its new update includes system-level changes that make apps run more efficiently, especially in multitasking situations, according to the technology giant.

Privacy and security controls are also increased in Android 17 Beta 1 as well. It adds refinements to permission management, giving users more visibility on how apps use sensitive data like location, microphone and camera inputs. A number of professional-grade tools have been introduced for media and camera apps, including seamless transitions and standardised loudness.

Versatile Video Coding (VVC) standard has been supported, audio framework imposes restrictions on background audio interactions such as audio playback, Audio focus requests and volume change APIs. This means that according to the company, such modifications are deliberately made in order for a user of to be changed.

Android 17 also offers subtle interface polish, such as improvements to smoother system animations and refinements to notifications and quick settings behaviour on the UI front. It has also been boosted by Google’s support for large-screen devices, including the removal of opt-out for orientation and resizability restrictions on large screen devices — “along with better scaling and layout adaptability” for foldables and tablets.

Apart from that, the update imposes restrictions on size of custom notification views to limit use of memory less. This ends a loophole, according to the company, which allowed apps to bypass existing limits by using URIs. The target SDK version gated this behaviour and it is used for applications that attack API 37, above.

How to Install Android 17 Beta on Pixel Phones

Supported Pixel smartphones enrolled in the Android Beta Programme have Android 17 Beta 1 for supported Pixel phones. They include the latest Pixel 10 series to the Pixel 6 models. In order to install the update, .

1. Visit the Android Beta Programme website and sign in with your Google account
2. Select your eligible Pixel device and opt into the programme
3. Once enrolled, navigate to Settings > System > Software Update on your phone
4. Check for updates and download Android 17 Beta 1 when it appears

Once installed the device will receive future beta updates over the air (OTA) after installation. Those who use beta software should be aware that bugs or stability issues may occur, and it is generally recommended for developers or advanced users rather than primary devices.