Google is already preparing for its next big Android version, and while Android 16 is still rolling out to many devices, early details about Android 17 have started appearing online. From its internal dessert name to expected features and release timeline, here’s a complete look at what Android users can expect in 2026.
Android 17 Dessert Name (Internal Codename)
Although Google stopped publicly using dessert names after Android 10, the tradition still continues internally.
According to early information, Android 17 is expected to carry the dessert codename “Cinnamon Bun.”
The naming follows Google’s alphabetical sequence, and since Android 16 used the codename Baklava, the next version logically moves to the letter C.
At the moment, there is no official word about Android 17’s Easter egg, but it will likely appear once developer preview builds are released.
Android 17 Release Timeline (Expected)
Based on Google’s recent update cycle, Android 17 is expected to follow a similar schedule to Android 16.
Expected timeline:
- Developer Preview: November 2025
- First Beta: January or February 2026
- Platform Stability: April–May 2026
- Stable Release: June 2026
As always, Pixel devices will receive the update first, while other smartphone brands may start rolling it out gradually by Q3 2026.
Android 17 Supported Devices (Pixel)
Google has extended software support for many Pixel phones, which means several older models are still eligible.
Expected Pixel devices to receive Android 17:
- Pixel 10
- Pixel 10 Pro
- Pixel 10 Pro XL
- Pixel 10 Pro Fold
- Pixel 9 / 9 Pro / 9 Pro XL / 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel 9a
- Pixel 8 / 8 Pro / 8a
- Pixel 7 / 7 Pro / 7a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel 6 / 6 Pro / 6a
Thanks to Google’s extended update policy, even the Pixel 6 series is expected to receive Android 17.
Android 17 Expected Features
While Google hasn’t officially announced Android 17 features yet, several improvements spotted in Android 16 QPR beta builds hint at what could arrive next.
1. Lock Screen Widgets
One of the most anticipated features is the return of lock screen widgets.
Google has already tested a new widget hub that can be accessed by swiping on the lock screen. This section may allow users to add both system and third-party widgets, similar to iOS’s Today View.
Android 17 could bring a more polished and stable version of this feature.
2. Forced Themed Icons
Material You icons still look inconsistent because many apps don’t support themed icons.
Android 17 may introduce forced themed icons, allowing the system to apply color tints even to unsupported apps, creating a cleaner and more uniform home screen appearance.
3. Desktop Mode Improvements
Google has been quietly developing a proper Android Desktop Mode.
Early builds already show features like:
- Windowed apps
- Taskbar support
- Floating windows
- Better external display handling
Android 17 could finally deliver a usable desktop experience when a phone is connected to a monitor.
4. Split Notifications and Quick Settings
Google may separate notifications and Quick Settings into two different panels.
With this change:
- Swipe down from the left → notifications
- Swipe down from the right → Quick Settings
Several Android skins already offer this, and Android 17 could make it official on Pixel devices.
5. AI-Based Notification Summary
Android 17 is also expected to expand AI features powered by Gemini Nano.
A new notification summary feature may:
- Automatically summarize long chat messages
- Display short previews under notifications
- Reduce notification clutter
The processing is expected to happen on-device for privacy and speed.
6. Double-Tap to Turn Off Screen
Another small but useful feature could be double-tap to lock the screen.
Many manufacturers already offer this gesture, and Android 17 may finally add native support for Pixel phones.
Final Thoughts
Android 17 is shaping up to be a refinement-focused update rather than a massive redesign. With smarter AI features, better multitasking, improved lock screen customization, and desktop enhancements, Google seems focused on improving daily usability.
While some of these features may arrive earlier through Pixel Drops, Android 17 will likely bring them together in a more stable and complete form.
More details should emerge once the first developer preview goes live later this year.