Android 17 Beta 3 was released on March 26, 2026. This update is a major milestone as it marks Platform Stability, meaning all internal and external APIs and system behaviors are finalized for developers to test their apps.
Supported Platforms and Devices
The beta is currently rolling out as an over-the-air (OTA) update to users enrolled in the Android Beta Program.
Google Pixel Devices: All models from the Pixel 6 series and newer are supported, including:
Pixel 10 Series: Pixel 10, 10 Pro, 10 Pro XL, 10 Pro Fold.
Pixel 9 Series: Pixel 9, 9 Pro, 9 Pro XL, 9 Pro Fold, 9a.
Pixel 8 Series: Pixel 8, 8 Pro, 8a.
Pixel 7 Series: Pixel 7, 7 Pro, 7a.
Pixel 6 Series: Pixel 6, 6 Pro, 6a.
Others: Pixel Fold and Pixel Tablet
Android Emulator: Developers can use 64-bit system images within Android Studio to test on non-Pixel hardware.
Release Date and Availability
Release Date: March 26, 2026.
Targeted Stable Release: Expected in June 2026.
Supported Devices: Primarily Google Pixel devices, specifically Pixel 6 and newer (including Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, and the Pixel 10 series).
Codename: Internally referred to as "Cinnamon Bun".
Beta 3 introduces several user-facing and technical refinements:
Enhanced Multitasking
Bubbles for All Apps: Users can now force any app into a floating "bubble" window for easier multitasking on phones, foldables, and tablets.
Interactive Picture-in-Picture (iPiP): Supports interactive PiP windows in desktop mode, allowing users to keep controls accessible while using other apps.
Also Read: Motorola Starts Android 17 Beta Program – Early Access for These Devices
UI and Customisation
Hide App Labels: A new setting allows users to hide app names on the home screen for a cleaner look.
Quick Settings Split: The "Internet" tile has been split back into separate Wi-Fi and Mobile Data toggles.
Screen Recorder Redesign: A new floating toolbar provides immediate options to view, edit, or share recordings.
Privacy and Security
Discrete Password Settings: Separate preferences for touch and physical keyboards; physical keyboard entries are hidden by default for extra privacy.
System-Provided Location Button: A new privacy-conscious way for apps to request precise location for a single session only.
Technical Specifications
Platform Stability: Reached with Beta 3; APIs are now locked.
API Level: Targets API Level 37.
Media and Camera
RAW14 Support: Adds support for the 14-bit RAW image format for high-end photography.
Vendor Extensions: Allows third-party apps to access proprietary camera features like "Super Resolution" or AI enhancements provided by hardware partners.
Battery Management
Priority Charging: A "Canary" feature appearing in Beta 3 that may pause background tasks to speed up charging during short sessions.
Wakelock Reduction: New APIs to help apps perform periodic tasks with lower power consumption.
Final Verdict
Android 17 Beta 3, released on March 26, 2026, marks a crucial milestone with Platform Stability, locking all APIs for developers. Targeted for stable release in June, it supports Pixel 6 and newer devices.
Overall, Android 17 Beta 3 offers a polished, developer-ready platform with user-friendly multitasking and privacy improvements, setting a strong foundation for the upcoming stable release.
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