Google has officially confirmed that Android 17 Beta 1 will be released soon, marking the beginning of testing for the next major version of Android. The announcement follows the rollout of the Android 16 QPR3 Beta 2.1 update and signals Google’s shift toward developing its upcoming flagship mobile operating system.
The beta program allows developers and early users to test Android 17 before the stable release and provide feedback that helps refine performance and usability.
Android 17 Beta 1: Focus on Stability and Performance
Android 17 Beta 1 is built on the Android 16 QPR platform. At this early testing stage, Google is focusing mainly on improving system stability, fixing bugs, and optimising performance. Major new features are usually introduced gradually during later beta updates.
However, early leaks suggest that Android 17 could bring noticeable design improvements. Reports indicate that Google may introduce more advanced visual effects, including layered interface elements and blur-based UI styling. These visual changes are expected to give the operating system a cleaner and more modern appearance.
Another potential update includes separating notifications from Quick Settings, which could make navigation easier and allow users to access alerts and system controls more efficiently. There are also reports that Android 17 may introduce expanded app support for Always-On Display, enabling users to interact with notifications and apps without unlocking their devices.
How to Enroll in Android 17 Beta 1
Users who are already registered in Google’s Android Beta Program will automatically receive the Android 17 Beta 1 update once it becomes available. The update will arrive as a regular over-the-air (OTA) system update, and no additional registration will be required.
For users who are not currently enrolled in the beta program, Google provides a simple enrollment process:
Visit the Android Beta Program website
Sign in using your Google account
Check if your device is eligible for the beta update
Select your device and enroll in the Android Beta Program
Accept the program terms and conditions
Wait for the OTA update notification on your phone
Install the beta version like a standard system update
Participants can also share feedback through built-in reporting tools or through official Android beta community forums.
Expected Eligible Devices for Android 17 Beta
Google has not officially confirmed the full list of supported devices yet. However, based on previous Android beta cycles and Pixel support timelines, the following devices are expected to receive the Android 17 beta update:
Pixel 10 Series
Pixel 10
Pixel 10 Pro
Pixel 10 Pro XL
Pixel 10 Pro Fold
Pixel 10a
Pixel 9 Series
Pixel 9
Pixel 9 Pro
Pixel 9 Pro XL
Pixel 9 Pro Fold
Pixel 9a
Pixel 8 Series
Pixel 8
Pixel 8 Pro
Pixel 8a
Pixel 7 Series
Pixel 7
Pixel 7 Pro
Pixel 7a
Pixel Fold
Pixel 6 Series
Pixel 6
Pixel 6 Pro
Pixel 6a
Final device eligibility will depend on Google’s official rollout and individual device enrollment status.
Android 17 Stable Release Timeline
Google has internally tagged Android 17’s platform release as “26Q2,” suggesting that the stable public version is expected during the second quarter of 2026. The beta testing phase will help Google refine the software before the final rollout.
Although Google has not officially confirmed the dessert-themed codename, earlier reports suggest that Android 17 could carry the name “Cinnamon Bun,” continuing the company’s tradition of internal dessert-based naming.
What to Expect Next
Android 17 is expected to focus on refining system performance, improving visual design, and enhancing everyday usability. As additional beta versions are released, more features and updates are likely to be introduced.
For developers and technology enthusiasts, the Android 17 Beta 1 release marks the first opportunity to experience Google’s next-generation mobile platform ahead of its official launch.