New Delhi: Google has recently started rolling out its latest Android 17 upgrade to eligible Pixel devices. This latest OS is now available for the Google Pixel 6 series and newer models, the Google Pixel Fold, and the Google Pixel Tablet. This upgrade also unveils a range of the latest features aimed at enhanced multitasking and gaming, along with some security and privacy upgrades.
Bubbles’ latest multitasking feature lets users turn any application into a compact floating window by long-pressing its icon. On devices such as the Pixel Fold, Bubbles appear within the dedicated Bubble Bar located in the bottom-right corner of the screen.
Users can switch between applications directly from the Bubble Bar, resize floating windows, or extend them into full-screen mode. Another latest feature is Screen Reactions, which enables users to record themselves by using the front-facing camera while simultaneously recording their screen. This camera feed is overlaid on top of the screen recording, creating a single video clip that captures both the user’s reaction and on-screen activity. Google has also refreshed its screen recording and annotation tools with the latest toolbar.
Android 17 also comes with a dedicated gaming mode for foldable devices. In this mode, on-screen gaming controls are displayed on the lower half of the screen, effectively turning it into a virtual gamepad. Google also claims the upgrade improves memory management to reduce frame drops and stuttering during gameplay. It also unveils the temporary, precise location sharing by enabling users to grant application access to their exact location for a limited period. This upgrade also adds granular contact-sharing controls, by allowing users to share selected contacts rather than their entire address book.
Google has also introduced and added a latest “Mark as Lost” option in Find Hub, enabling the users to lock the missing devices remotely. Live Threat Detection has been enhanced to identify and block more suspicious applications and scams, while Advanced Protection has been strengthened to offer greater security against sophisticated threats. This upgrade also tightens PIN security by reducing the number of enabled guess attempts and increasing cooldown periods between retries.
