Google released this Thursday (February 26, 2026, Estados Unidos local time) the second public beta version of Android 17, known internally as Cinnamon Bun. The update arrives via OTA for Pixel smartphones from series 6 onwards, including models Pro, a and later, in addition to Pixel tablets. The build maintains API level 37 and incorporates the February 5, 2026 security patch, with Google Play services updated to version 25.49.33. Usuários subscribers to Programa Android Beta receive the news immediately, while developers can download factory images for manual installation or test via emulator on Android Studio.
The platform follows the new release model adopted since Android 16, with major updates in the second quarter and smaller increments in the fourth quarter. The stable release of Android 17 is expected in April-June 2026, followed by a companion update in October-December. Google emphasizes the need for community feedback to fix bugs and refine features before final release.
Main new features introduced in Android 17 Beta 2
The update brings several improvements to interface, privacy and connectivity. Entre the highlights are:
- Floating bubbles independent of the messaging API, allowing you to create overlapping windows by pressing icons on the home screen; On tablets, a dedicated bar appears on the taskbar for organizing and moving bubbles.
- System-level EyeDropper API that captures pixel colors on the screen without requiring sensitive capture permissions, facilitating design and editing tools.
- Secure contact picker via ACTION_PICK_CONTACTS, with temporary and limited access to requested fields, reducing unnecessary exposure of personal data.
- Handoff API for continuous state transfer between nearby Android devices, synchronizing tasks via CompanionDeviceManager and suggesting resumption in the launcher.
- Advanced UWB DL-TDOA support for accurate, privacy-preserving indoor navigation and proximity detection based on the new Wi-Fi Alliance specification.
These features aim to offer greater fluidity in multitasking and continuity in the Android ecosystem, especially on smartphones, tablets and foldables.
Privacy and security enhancements
Android 17 reinforces protections against unauthorized access. The new ACCESS_LOCAL_NETWORK permission controls connections on local networks, integrating with the NEARBY_DEVICES group and preventing exploits on home or corporate LANs.
SMS OTP theft protection has been expanded to delay most apps’ access to messages containing codes by three hours, covering WebOTP, SMS Retriever, and standard message formats. Aplicativos as native messaging and wizards are exempt to preserve critical functionality.
Additional technical improvements
The system now handles captured touchpad events in a similar way to mice, improving compatibility in games that use pointers. The ICU library has been updated to version 78, expanding support for new emojis, scripts, and date formatting.
Applications that rely on NPU need to declare the FEATURE_NEURAL_PROCESSING_UNIT feature in the manifest to ensure priority access.
Guidelines for developers and users
Developers should compile applications with the latest Android Studio Panda SDK and test compatibility with the changes. Google requests detailed issue reports on the official tracker. Usuários beta continues to receive frequent updates to stabilize the platform before the official launch.
