Android 17, Now With Even More Bubbles

Welcome to episode 91 of Pixelated, a podcast by 9to5Google. This week, with Abner and Damien out at MWC, Will invites Andrew Romero to join him on a whirlwind tour of two new OS upgrades from Google: Android 16 QPR3, and Android 17 Beta 2. The two discuss AI-generated wallpapers, that new Now Playing app, and Android's new bubbles — not to be confused with its own bubbles — while Andrew introduces his SPI: Sandwich Price Index. Subscribe YouTube PodcastsPocket CastsSpotifyApple PodcastsOvercast Sponsored by Proton Unlimited: Pixelated listeners can save 30% on an annual subscription by signing up for Proton Unlimited using this link. Thanks to Proton Unlimited for sponsoring this week's episode. Timecodes 00:00 - Intro and Android 16 QPR303:53 - AI-generated icons13:15 - Now Playing app and flashlight toggle22:05 - Pixel Desktop experience, At a Glance, and Gemini Automation34:18 - Pixel Watch Drop, briefly36:09 - Android 17 Beta 2 and Bubbles43:32 - Beta 2 grab bag50:52 - Wrap-up Hosts Will SattelbergAndrew Romero Read more Android 16 QPR3 rolling out with March 2026 security updateMarch 2026 Feature Drop: Pixel 10 ‘Comfort’ view, custom AI icons, At a Glance ‘My commute,’ & more Pixel Watch Feature Drop: Express Pay, phone reminders, and more Pixel homescreens are getting custom icons, but Google’s keeping them locked to AI Listen to more 9to5 Podcasts The Sideload9to5Mac Happy HourElectrekSpace Explored Feedback? Drop us a line at [e-mail], leave a comment on the post, or reach out to our producer. And for even more Android discussion, dive into the official 9to5Google forums!