Google has rolled out Android 17 Beta 1 to eligible Pixel devices, just days after abruptly postponing its initial launch.

The first public beta of the next Android release is now available to developers and early adopters, bringing a mix of privacy, security and performance upgrades, alongside early signs of broader ecosystem integration.

As expected, Pixel hardware is leading the charge. The beta is available for Pixel 6 and newer models, including the Pixel 6a, Pixel 7 and 8 series, Pixel Fold, Pixel Tablet and the latest Pixel 9 and Pixel 10 families.

Users already enrolled in the Android Beta Program and running Android 16 QPR3 Beta builds should receive the update over-the-air via Settings > System > Software updates.

Others can opt in through Google’s Android Beta website using the same Google account linked to their device. As with any beta software, backing up data is strongly recommended.

Android 17 marks a shift in Google’s release approach, replacing the traditional Developer Preview with a new ‘Canary’ channel for faster iteration and feedback.

This first beta is largely developer-focused. Apps targeting Android 17 will be required to properly support large-screen devices (600dp and above), preventing developers from locking orientation or opting out of resizable layouts.

The move highlights Google’s push into foldables, tablets, desktop modes and even Android XR.

Google has introduced performance enhancements including a lock-free MessageQueue to reduce dropped frames and a more efficient generational garbage collector aimed at lowering CPU usage.

Camera improvements include dynamic camera sessions for smoother mode switching and support for advanced codecs like VVC on compatible hardware. There are also Wi-Fi ranging upgrades and expanded companion device profiles.

On the consumer side, subtle UI tweaks have surfaced, including the long-requested option to remove the At a Glance widget from the home screen and refreshed volume and brightness sliders.

Perhaps most notably, Android 17 introduces a new cross-device ‘handoff’ capability, allowing users to resume app activity across phones, tablets, Chromebooks and web browsers signed into the same Google account – a clear play at tighter ecosystem integration.

Platform stability is expected next month, with a stable release tipped for Q3.