According to GSMArena's poll, Android 17 dominated excitement at Google I/O 2026. The upcoming update generated far more interest than other announcements. Wear OS 7 received minimal attention, while Gemini Intelligence and Android Auto tied for second place. Some respondents hope Android-powered laptops (Googlebooks) will push developers to create desktop-friendly UIs that could complement Android 17's improving desktop mode.

The most anticipated Android 17 features were enhanced security and AirDrop compatibility. Security concerns rank high as phones increasingly manage critical aspects of users' lives. AirDrop support addresses long-standing efforts by Android makers to match Apple's file-sharing capabilities. The feature avoids the "green bubble" controversy that plagued messaging interoperability. Gemini Intelligence received a generally positive reception.

Despite Android 17's popularity, the overall I/O event left many feeling underwhelmed. Commenters criticized Google for lacking significant innovations to its core operating systems. Wear OS specifically needs substantial improvements next year. Additionally, Google's new rules for sideloaded apps drew criticism, though unrelated to I/O announcements.