Google has begun rolling out Android 17 beta 2 to developers, introducing several notable features including floating app bubbles and cross-device handoff capabilities. The update, build CP21.260206.011, addresses bugs that caused spontaneous reboots and interface freezes while adding new multitasking tools. At roughly 510MB, the beta expands Android's multitasking capabilities with a system-level contact picker that grants temporary read-only access to specific contact fields.

One of the standout additions is the Bubbles feature, allowing users to turn any app into a floating window by long-pressing its icon in the launcher. On larger screens, a dedicated bubble bar in the taskbar enables easier organization and management of these floating windows. The update also introduces a Cross-device app handoff feature similar to Apple's Continuity, enabling seamless task continuation across Android devices. When active, Android displays handoff suggestions in the launcher on nearby devices, supporting both native app-to-app transitions and app-to-web fallback.

Privacy enhancements include expanded SMS OTP protection and new safeguards against unauthorized local network access. The update also brings an EyeDropper API that lets developers request colors from any pixel without requiring screen capture permissions. Google says the handoff feature is designed to enable seamless task continuity across the Android ecosystem. If you're enrolled in the Android Beta Program, the OTA update is rolling out now, with the stable Android 17 release expected in mid-2026.