Google has started rolling out Android 17 to Pixel smartphones, with other Android devices set to receive the update throughout the year.

The latest version of Google’s mobile operating system adds a new multitasking feature called Bubbles, which lets users turn any app into a floating window that sits on top of other apps.

Users can long-press an app icon to create a bubble, allowing them to keep maps, notes, videos, chats or other tools visible while using another app.

On larger-screen devices, including foldables such as the Pixel 10 Pro Fold and Samsung Galaxy Fold, bubbles can be managed from a dedicated bar at the bottom of the screen.

Google has also added Screen Reactions, a new screen recording feature that captures both the phone display and the user’s face via the selfie camera.

The feature is aimed at creators making reaction clips, tutorials and social media videos for platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.

Android 17 also brings a dedicated foldable gaming mode, designed to make better use of dual-screen and large-screen devices. It introduces a 50/50 layout, with gameplay shown on the top half of the display and a virtual gamepad on the bottom.

Google said it has also improved memory clean-up to reduce frame drops and stuttering during high-definition gaming.

Security and safety updates include temporary app access to precise location, selective contact sharing, stronger PIN protection and an improved ‘Mark as Lost’ feature in Find Hub, which allows users to remotely lock a missing phone using biometrics.

Google is also preparing to roll out Gemini Intelligence to select advanced devices later this year, adding context-aware AI features designed to complete multi-step tasks.