Google has released the first beta of Android 17, bringing performance upgrades and new features to media and camera apps. The company is shifting its developer approach from betas to a continuous Canary channel for faster updates.
The change aims to reduce fragmentation in the Android ecosystem by allowing developers to test and integrate features sooner. Android 17 will also restrict developers from forcing orientation or resizing on large-screen devices, enabling better app performance on tablets and foldables.
Camera capabilities are being enhanced with APIs for smoother transitions, support for the VVC (H.266) video codec, improved loudness handling, and stricter background audio controls. Performance improvements include reduced missed frames, a more efficient garbage collection mechanism, and better Wi-Fi connectivity with proximity detection and secure peer discovery.
Source: https://techcrunch.com/2026/02/11/google-releases-the-first-beta-of-android-17-adopts-a-continous-developer-release-plan