Tech giant Google (GOOGL) has started rolling out Android 17, its latest major mobile operating system update, but some of the biggest AI features will not arrive until later this year. The first wave is coming to Google Pixel devices, with other phone brands expected to receive the update over the coming months. Android 17 includes upgrades for multitasking, social video, gaming, security, and privacy, while also preparing the platform for more advanced agentic AI features. The timing is important because Apple (AAPL) also recently announced new AI and Siri improvements for the fall.
One of the biggest features available now is Bubbles, which lets users shrink running apps into floating bubbles that stay on the screen. This makes it easier to quickly return to apps like Google Keep, messages, or notes without opening the full multitasking menu. Google is also adding a dedicated Bubbles section to the taskbar on foldable devices. In addition, Android 17 includes Screen Reactions, a creator-focused tool that lets users record themselves over whatever is happening on their phone screen, which could reduce the need for third-party apps like CapCut or Instagram Edits.
Several major AI features, including Gemini Intelligence, redesigned emoji, smarter voice dictation, and vibe-coded widgets, will begin rolling out later this summer, starting with the Pixel 11 series and upcoming Samsung (SSNLF) devices. Android 17 also adds one-time location access, smarter approximate-location privacy controls, stronger Lost Mode protections, app-specific dark mode, improved split-screen controls, and better hearing-aid audio settings.
Are GOOGL Shares a Good Buy?
Turning to Wall Street, analysts have a Strong Buy consensus rating on GOOGL stock based on 28 Buys and five Holds assigned in the past three months. Furthermore, the average GOOGL price target of $427.38 per share implies 14.5% upside potential.
