Android 17 launches with new multitasking tools as Google expands Gemini features

On Tuesday, Google released the final version of Android 17 operating systemas well as its counterpart for smartwatches, Wear OS 7. The latest version, which arrives first on its Pixel devices, is also accompanied by Pixel Drop, bringing new features that include support for the latest AI models, such as the Lyria 3 music generation model, the multimedia Gemini Omni, and the speech-to-subtitles tools for the Pixel 10a with AudioLM.

The latest feature rollout underscores Google’s strategy of using its Android and Pixel devices to showcase the latest AI technology. While rival Apple is focused on catching up on AI with the public launch of AI upgrades to Siri and iOS 27 in September, Google’s Android 17 is focused on the latest models of AI, and Gemini’s role in creating, communicating, and other device experiences.

In today’s Pixel Drop, Android’s Quick Share file sharing feature will become compatible with Apple’s AirDrop on older Pixel 8a and 9a devices. Additionally, Gemini Omni will now let you edit videos in chat, while Lyria 3 lets users create music tracks using text prompts and/or images in the Gemini app. Pixel 10a devices will also get better speech-to-speech translation tools with AudioLM.

Other phone features arrive as well, such as the ability to record a personalized outgoing voice message for callers when you’re unable to answer. In addition, the “Receive Message” feature will reach more global markets.

The Pixel Drop brings emergency detection features to the Google Pixel Watch as well, meaning that if the watch detects a car accident, fall, or lack of a pulse, it will automatically contact emergency services and emergency contacts you’ve specified.

In addition to AI, the biggest update to Android 17 allows users to take advantage of features like the “Bubble Bar,” a new UI element that lets you organize, move, and quickly access recent apps that appear as bubbles at the bottom of the screen. This feature is designed to help speed up application interactions and aid in multi-application workflow.

Social media users may like the new Android 17 feature that lets them record themselves using the selfie camera and phone screen simultaneously for screen reaction videos that can be shared on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and others.

Parental controls and security features have also been improved in this latest version, with the “Mark as Lost” feature added in Find Hub, live threat detection, and other threat defenses, along with screen time limits and content filters that can now be set with a PIN without linking a Google account.

The new foldable gaming mode offers a 50/50 layout with a dynamic gamepad.

Meanwhile, watch owners can now receive live updates from phone apps that match the Pixel Watch. Smartwatches will also work better The upcoming Google Glasses with artificial intelligence technology And other devices, such as headphones.

This summer, Wear OS will offer more Gemini Intelligence features, such as tools for creating custom widgets once described, and will be able to offer “personal intelligence” by linking Google apps and chat history with Gemini.

Battery life improvements — up to 10%, Google claims — as well as multi-step automation will also come to the new Wear OS.