Google officially launched the first beta of Android 17 on February 13, 2026, making it available for a range of Pixel devices. This early release offers users a preview of new features and performance enhancements. The rollout comes as Apple confirms its own plans for a significantly upgraded, AI-powered Siri, expected to debut later this year.^[1][2][3][4] ### Android 17 Beta Features New Adaptive Tools The Android 17 Beta 1 focuses on improving privacy, security, and overall performance. Google aims to build a more adaptable platform for apps, especially for larger screens like foldables and tablets. Key enhancements include significant upgrades to camera and media capabilities. New tools are also available for optimizing connectivity and expanding profiles for companion devices.^[2][5] One notable change is the mandatory large-screen adaptivity. Apps targeting Android 17 running on devices with a screen width of 600dp or more can no longer opt out of resizing or orientation changes. This means ignored attributes like `screenOrientation` and `resizeableActivity` will be disregarded on large screens, ensuring a consistent user experience.^[2][6] Performance improvements are also part of this beta. Android 17 introduces a new lock-free implementation of `android.os.MessageQueue`, which helps reduce missed frames. The ART (Android Runtime) Concurrent Mark-Compact collector now supports generational garbage collection, aiming for smoother app performance.^[2][7] Google has also shifted its release strategy. The traditional "Developer Preview" model has been replaced by a continuous "Android Canary" program. This new approach offers faster access to features and APIs as soon as they pass internal testing. It also aims for better stability in beta experiences and easier testing for developers.^[3][6] Matthew McCullough, Google's VP of Product Management for Android Developer, stated that Android 17 continues the work to build a platform that prioritizes privacy, security, and refined performance.^[5] ### How to Install Android 17 Beta on Your Pixel Users with supported Google Pixel devices can install Android 17 Beta 1 through the Android Beta Program. The easiest method is to visit google.com/android/beta and "Opt in" with the Google account linked to the Pixel device. After enrolling, the update usually appears within minutes to an hour in the device's system settings. Users can find it under Settings > System > Software Updates > System Updates and then tap the install button.^[8][9][6] It is crucial to back up all important data before installing any beta software, as it may contain bugs and could be unstable. Experts recommend installing beta versions on a secondary device rather than a primary daily-use phone.^[9][10] For advanced users, manual installation via sideloading an OTA file or flashing a factory image is also possible. This method requires a computer with Android Debug Bridge (ADB) tools and proper technical knowledge.^[8][9] ### Devices Supporting the Latest Android Beta The Android 17 Beta is widely available for Google Pixel smartphones equipped with Tensor processors. The supported devices include the Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a, Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold.^{[1][11][12][13][8]} Notably, the Pixel 6 series will receive its final major Android OS update with Android 17, with updates expected to conclude by October 2026.^[8] While the beta is initially for Pixel devices, other manufacturers are expected to roll out Android 17 updates for their devices later. Samsung's extensive list of expected eligible devices includes the Galaxy S23, S24, S25 series, Galaxy Z Fold and Flip models (including the Z Fold 7 and Flip 7), and numerous Galaxy A, F, and M series phones.^[11][14][13] OnePlus is also expected to support Android 17 on multiple series, including the OnePlus 11, 12, 13, and Nord devices.^[11][14] Xiaomi, Redmi, and POCO devices under HyperOS are also projected to receive the update, spanning various flagship, Note, and Pad series.^[14][15] Motorola's Edge and newer Razr phones, along with flagship devices from Vivo and iQOO, are also anticipated to gain Android 17 support.^[11][14] ### Apple Confirms Major Siri AI Overhaul for 2026 Meanwhile, Apple has confirmed that a significantly enhanced, AI-powered version of Siri is on track for release in 2026.^[4][16] This upcoming update, sometimes referred to as Siri 2.0 or Apple Intelligence, aims to transform the digital assistant into a more conversational, context-aware, and task-capable entity.^[17][18] Reports indicate that Apple plans a hybrid approach, integrating Google Gemini-powered features alongside its own internal AI models.^[19][20][17] This strategy reflects Apple's intent to catch up in the generative AI space, where rivals like Google and OpenAI have made significant strides.^[20] The launch of the new Siri is expected to be a phased rollout. Some advanced features might arrive with iOS 26.4 around May, with the full, "screen-aware" AI Siri experience likely debuting with iOS 27 in September 2026.^[4] Apple CEO Tim Cook has confirmed the 2026 launch, emphasizing the company's commitment to privacy by leveraging on-device artificial intelligence models.^[21] The enhanced Siri is designed to understand personal context, orchestrate apps, and execute complex, multi-step tasks across the Apple ecosystem, aiming to be an "agentic AI" that does things for users.^[18] As Google pushes forward with its latest Android beta, bringing new features and improved adaptability, Apple prepares for a major overhaul of its own digital assistant. Both tech giants are signaling a strong focus on advanced AI and more intelligent, seamless user experiences in 2026.

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