Google Adds New Safety and Security Features With Android 17 Rollout

Google began rolling out Android 17 on Pixel Tuesday (June 16) and said it will extend the new operating system to other eligible Android devices throughout 2026.

The company also said in a Tuesday blog post that it will begin adding Gemini Intelligence to select advanced devices later this summer.

One of the new features in Android 17 is Bubbles, which lets users turn any app into a compact, floating window on the screen.

“Handy for travel, entertainment and work, Bubbles lets you easily reference notes or maps, watch tutorials or even check sports,” Seang Chau, vice president and general manager of Android Platform at Google, said in the post. “It keeps everything you need in reach but out of the way.”

A new Screen Reactions feature lets users record themselves using their device’s selfie camera while also capturing their phone screen.

“Add your thoughts and reactions over sites, apps and trending videos without the need for a green screen and switching between apps,” Chau said.

With Android 17’s new foldable gaming mode, foldable devices have an optimized 50/50 layout with a game view on top and a game pad below.

Chau said this feature will “maximize the view and button-mashing spaces.”

New security and safety features in Android 17 enable users to grant an app temporary access to their precise location, share specific contacts rather than their entire address book, and lock a missing phone with their biometrics.

Other updates block more suspicious apps and scams, protect users from more sophisticated threats, and reduce the number of times someone can try to guess the device’s PIN.

Google initially unveiled Android 17 with Gemini Intelligence features in May.

The company said at the time in a blog post that Gemini Intelligence on Android would roll out in waves starting with the latest Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phone this summer, followed by other Android devices including watches, cars, glasses and laptops later this year.

Google’s announcements on Tuesday followed Apple’s June 8 introduction of the Siri overhaul it has been promising since 2024. The new Siri aims to change Apple’s position in the AI race.