Google delayed the release of Android 17 Beta 1 at the last moment, surprising Pixel users and developers who were ready to install the update. The beta was expected to go live on February 12, and the company had even hinted at a major reveal the night before. In an updated statement issued on February 11 at 2:50 PM ET (February 12 at 1:20 AM IST), Google confirmed that the beta would not be released that day. The company added that Android 17 Beta 1 is coming soon but did not provide a specific timeline. However, Google did not share the root cause that may have forced the team to delay the rollout.
Despite the delay, interest in Android 17 remains strong. Google is changing how it develops Android by replacing the old Developer Preview system with a new continuous Canary channel. This will allow new features to be tested and refined regularly before reaching beta users, which should result in a smoother, more stable experience when public testing resumes.
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Google is also aiming to reach platform stability earlier than in previous years. The company expects this milestone as soon as next month, giving app developers more time to fine-tune their software for the final release.
Android 17 is expected to bring noticeable performance improvements with its release. Leaks suggest that with the upcoming Android 17, the devices may get a new look for the settings and notifications. Much like that on iOS, you might see notifications on one side and your settings buttons on the other.
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Google also hinted that the update will reduce CPU load and memory use, which should help phones feel faster and improve battery life. Media and camera apps will also benefit from new professional-level controls designed to make switching between modes feel smooth and consistent.
Furthermore, for the users with tablets or folding phones, apps will no longer feel like stretched-out phone apps, as they’ll be forced to fit the screen better. Lastly, Google might bring back separate buttons for Wi-Fi and mobile data to make it quicker to turn them on or off.
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Experts say that the update will continue Google’s focus on improving support for different screen sizes, and phones, foldables, and tablets should all offer a more consistent experience.