Android 17 'Cinnamon Bun' is coming: What changes for you?
What's the story
Google is gearing up for the next phase of its mobile software evolution with Android 17. The update is expected to launch in mid-2026, following a familiar pattern of developer previews and stable releases. The first developer preview could be released next month, with a beta build likely to follow in early 2026.
Codename
Internal codename revealed
In keeping with its tradition of naming updates after desserts, Google has internally dubbed Android 17 as "Cinnamon Bun." This follows the trend set by previous versions like Baklava (Android 16) and Vanilla Ice Cream (Android 15). The sweet name hints at a warm and inviting visual overhaul for the upcoming operating system.
Features
Android 17 to offer enhanced customization
Android 17 is expected to build on the Material 3 Expressive design language introduced with Android 16. The next version will likely offer deeper customization options, including dynamic wallpaper-based themes, a broader color palette, playful iconography, interactive widgets, and a redesigned notification shade. Pixel devices are likely to be the first ones to showcase this update.
Desktop enhancement
Android 17 to enhance desktop mode
Building on the enhanced desktop mode introduced with Android 16, the next version will let users connect their phones to a monitor or PC for a full desktop-like experience. This includes a taskbar showing time, battery and network status, mouse and keyboard support, app launching from a tray or taskbar, and full interactivity instead of passive mirroring.
Privacy enhancements
It will tighten app permissions
Android 17 is tipped to tighten app permissions and expand background activity restrictions, taking a more iOS-like approach to privacy. The update will likely include stronger controls for third-party apps, local network scanning alerts, enhanced app scanning tools, and additional layers of system-level protection. Google may also revamp core on-device experiences with a refreshed camera interface, more expressive notification interactions, resizable or magnified keyboard options, and quicker access to shortcuts/in-app tools.
Technical upgrades
Enhanced APIs and sandboxing
Android 17 is expected to bring enhanced APIs and new sandboxing options. These include stronger authentication support, improved file integrity tools, faster system updates/OTA delivery, and streamlined credential management. For everyday users, the update will likely feel like a brighter, more expressive version of Android 16 with smoother multitasking, more reactive widgets, and tighter privacy controls.