Google has begun to be implemented Android 17 and Use operating system 7 to Pixel phones and Pixel Watch devices. Samsung Galaxy and other Android phones are expected to receive the update starting next month.
The update introduces a new app window feature called Bubbles, along with more granular controls for location and contact sharing, and support for live updates on Wear OS.
Some of Google’s most hyped features since Google I/Oincluding Gemini Intelligence, are not part of the initial release. They are expected to arrive later this summer on select advanced devices.
Multitasking bubbles and more granular privacy controls in Android 17
Android 17 has introduced Bubbles, a feature that brings the messaging-style bubble interface to general apps. When an app appears in bubbles, it floats above other apps as a draggable icon.
Tapping the icon opens or closes the application window. Bubbles can be created in multiple apps at once, displayed as icons at the top of the floating window, allowing users to switch between apps quickly without abandoning their current task. While this feature is especially useful on foldable devices and tablets, it also works on phones.
Android 17 introduces more granular permission controls for location and contact access.
Users now have the option to grant temporary access to a precise location, offering a middle ground between completely blocking the precise location, which may cause some apps to stop working, and granting indefinite access.
Additionally, users can choose to share only specific contacts with an app, rather than the entire address book, similar to how access to files and media is managed on Android.
These updates respond to long-standing concerns that many apps require a “precise” location to function properly, leaving users with the choice between full disclosure and limited app functionality.
Live updates to Wear OS 7 and new device controls from the watch
Live Updates, the feature introduced with Android 16 last year that provides real-time notifications for food delivery, timers, and fitness tracking, is now available in Wear OS 7.
The watch versions are optimized for smaller screens but otherwise work the same as they do on phones.
Wear OS 7 introduces new features for managing connected devices. The watch’s media player now includes an output switch that allows users to switch audio between Bluetooth headphones, smart speakers, and other connected devices without requiring voice commands.
Google specifically mentioned that this feature will be compatible with “smart glasses” launching this fall. This suggests integration with devices such as Gucci XR glassesdeveloped in partnership with Kering, or similar future products. The output switch is also compatible with other smart home audio devices.
What’s not available yet and how the Android 17/Wear OS 7 rollout works
Several key features announced at Google I/O 2026 are not included in the initial version of Android 17
Gemini Intelligence, which enables deeper integration with apps and services for tasks like ordering food and purchasing tickets, will be available later this summer on “select advanced devices.”
Also expected to arrive later is the “Create My Widget” feature, a generative AI tool that allows users to describe a widget for Gemini to automatically create and sync with Wear OS like Tiles.
Google has not provided specific dates or a list of devices supporting these features.
Android 17 and Wear OS 7 are starting to roll out to Pixel phones and Pixel Watch devices today. Samsung Galaxy and other Android phones will start receiving the update next month. No launch timing has been announced for other OEMs.
Users interested in installing the update should check Settings, then System and Software Update on their device.
Wear OS 7 updates are delivered through the watch’s companion app on the paired phone.
