Google has released the second beta version of Android 17 for eligible Pixel devices enrolled in the Android Beta programme. The update builds on the first beta rolled out earlier this month and continues the company’s focus on performance improvements, user experience refinements, and enhanced security measures.
According to Google, Android 17 aims to deliver efficiency gains while also moving closer to platform stability, which the company expects to achieve by the middle of next month.
Rollout
Android 17 Beta 2 is currently being rolled out to supported Pixel smartphones that are part of the beta programme. The update introduces changes across core functionality, privacy controls, performance optimisation, and system-level user interface enhancements.
As with previous beta releases, the update is intended primarily for developers and testers ahead of the stable public rollout.
Bubbles
One of the notable additions in Android 17 Beta 2 is expanded bubble support. Users can now create bubbles for apps by long-pressing on an app icon in the pinned taskbar.
These floating bubbles allow applications to open in a multi-window format. Users can move the bubbles around the screen, enabling easier multitasking and quicker access to ongoing activities.
Google has indicated that this feature will be available across tablets, smartphones, and foldable devices running Android 17. The broader device compatibility suggests an emphasis on improving productivity across form factors.
EyeDropper
The update introduces a new system-level EyeDropper API. This tool allows developers to enable colour selection from any pixel on the screen within their apps.
Importantly, the functionality does not require users to grant sensitive screen capture permissions. By limiting the need for broader access rights, Google aims to strengthen privacy controls while offering additional flexibility for app developers.
The EyeDropper API may be particularly useful for creative applications, design tools, and productivity software that rely on colour selection features.
Contacts
Android 17 Beta 2 also includes a revamped contacts picker. The updated version provides temporary read-only access to specific data fields based on a user’s request.
This approach reduces the need for apps to request broad contact access permissions. By limiting access to only the required data, the system enhances privacy and aligns with Android’s ongoing permission management improvements.
The change reflects Google’s continued focus on minimising data exposure while maintaining usability.
Handoff
Another significant addition is the Handoff API. This feature allows users to pause an activity on one Android device and resume it on another.
For example, a user reading an article on a smartphone can continue the same activity on a tablet for a larger viewing experience. The functionality enables smoother transitions across devices within the Android ecosystem.
The concept is comparable to Apple’s Handoff feature, which supports task continuity across iPhone, iPad, and Mac devices. Google’s implementation aims to deliver a similar cross-device workflow within Android environments.
Security
Google has expanded SMS OTP protection in Android 17 Beta 2 to strengthen safeguards against OTP hijacking and related scams.
Previously limited to certain formats, the protection now applies to all types of messages containing one-time passwords. Additionally, apps that do not have permission to access WebOTP format messages will be able to retrieve them after a delay of three hours from when the OTP was received.
This change is intended to reduce immediate misuse of OTPs by unauthorised applications while still allowing legitimate access after a defined period.
Stability
Google has stated that Android 17 is progressing toward the platform stability milestone, expected by the middle of next month. Reaching this milestone typically means that app-facing APIs and behaviours are finalised, enabling developers to optimise their applications ahead of the stable release.
Android 17 Beta 2 introduces practical enhancements across multitasking, privacy management, cross-device functionality, and security. With features such as expanded bubble support, a system-level EyeDropper API, improved contacts access controls, Handoff capability, and broader SMS OTP protection, the update reflects Google’s continued focus on usability and platform security. As the software moves closer to stability, further refinements are expected before the public rollout.
FAQs
Who can access Android 17 Beta 2?
Eligible Pixel devices in the beta programme.
What is the new bubble feature?
It allows floating multi-window app access.
What is the EyeDropper API?
A tool to pick colours from any screen pixel.
What does the Handoff API do?
Lets users resume tasks on another device.
How is SMS OTP protection improved?
Now applies to all OTP messages.
