Google has launched Android 17 for Pixel smartphones.

      Gemini Intelligence will be available later this year for select devices.

      After months of speculation and two keynote events in May 2026, Google has officially released the stable version of Android 17. It begins rolling out today to compatible Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 lineup and extending to the latest Pixel 10 series.

      The stable version includes many features that were highlighted during The Android Show and Google I/O. However, if you were anticipating the arrival of Gemini Intelligence, it will be released later this summer for “selected advanced devices.” Now, let’s take a look at what Android 17 brings at its launch.

      New content creation features for Instagram are included in Android 17.

      So, what’s new in Android 17?

      One significant addition is Bubbles, a feature that allows access to a selected number of apps as a floating window over another app or as a circular app icon on the screen when minimized.

      You can use this feature by long-pressing an app icon and selecting the Bubble option. It’s particularly useful for managing workflows involving two or three apps, allowing you to switch between them with a single tap. On foldable devices and tablets, bubbles can dock in a dedicated bar at the bottom of the display.

      Android 17 also introduces Screen Reactions, a feature that enables you to simultaneously record your phone’s screen along with your face using the front camera. This is mainly for content creators, who can now produce reaction videos without needing to use an editing application.

      What’s new in gaming, security, and more?

      In gaming, foldables will feature a new 50/50 layout with the game view at the top and a dynamic gamepad below. Google has also optimized memory cleanup to minimize frame drops and stuttering during high-demand gaming.

      Security features have received notable enhancements, including temporary location permissions and controls for sharing specific contacts instead of your entire address book. The Mark as Lost feature in the Find Hub allows you to lock your phone using biometrics, preventing anyone from unlocking or resetting it with a passcode.

      Google has also implemented measures to cap PIN guessing, increasing wait times between failed attempts. Other updates in Android 17 include hidden app names on the home screen, a dedicated volume slider for your AI assistant (Gemini on Pixel devices), expanded Parental Controls for all Android devices, and app memory limits to conserve system resources.

      While Pixel devices are the first to receive this update, other manufacturers are expected to announce their Android 17-based updates soon. For example, Samsung is anticipated to unveil One UI 9 during the second Galaxy Unpacked event of the year, reportedly occurring on July 22, 2026. Other brands, including OnePlus, are likely to follow suit.

      For over five years, Shikhar has effectively simplified developments in consumer technology and communicated them clearly.

      Qualcomm unveils its flagship XR processor and a new framework for AI glasses.

      Qualcomm is setting the stage for the next generation of XR hardware with two announcements aimed at both the internal technology of future headsets and the tools necessary for their development. At Augmented World Expo 2026, the company introduced Snapdragon Reality Elite, its new flagship XR platform designed for devices using Android XR and other mixed-reality applications. Additionally, Qualcomm launched Snapdragon START, a new initiative intended to assist brands in quickly bringing AI-powered smart glasses and wearable devices to market.

      Microsoft's new Surface Pro 12 is its most advanced 2-in-1 PC yet, but it comes with the highest price tag yet.

      Microsoft has unveiled what is arguably its most impressive Surface Pro to date. The 12th Generation Surface Pro features substantial upgrades across the board, including enhanced CPU and GPU performance, alongside improved battery life.

      These enhancements definitely make it a strong recommendation for anyone seeking a powerful 2-in-1 laptop that can also function as a tablet when necessary, while providing the option to attach a keyboard for increased productivity. However, there is one barrier to consider: the price.

      Microsoft Surface Laptop 8 boasts a 20-hour battery life, improved GPU performance, and a high price of $1,599.

      Microsoft has just introduced the Surface Laptop 8, which now operates on the Snapdragon X2 chip (replacing the previous generation's X Elite), but the most notable aspect may be the lineup's two variants, with the 13.8-inch model claiming up to 20 hours of battery life on a single charge.