● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportLow impact1 neutral
Android 17 introduces app bubbling feature, initially exclusive to Pixel devices
Key points
- Android 17 adds app bubbling.
- Bubbled apps remain on top of the screen.
- Feature is a Pixel exclusive initially.
- Up to five apps can be bubbled.
Android 17 Introduces App Bubbles
Android 17 has rolled out a new feature called app bubbles. This allows users to isolate an app, making its icon consistently visible on the screen, similar to how text conversation bubbles function. This provides a convenient method for quick access to frequently used applications.
Functionality and Usage
When an app is bubbled, its icon floats above all other content on the screen. Users can place up to five apps in a bubble, which can be positioned along the left or right side of the display. These bubbled apps move together as a group.
Initial Availability and Future Expansion
The app bubbling feature is currently exclusive to Google Pixel devices. However, it is planned for release on other Android phones from various manufacturers over time. Samsung Galaxy devices already offer a similar feature called Smart Pop-Up View.
How to Bubble an App on Pixel
To bubble an app on a Pixel device, users long-press the desired app icon from the home screen or app drawer. A pop-up menu appears, from which the 'Bubble' option can be selected. The app then shrinks to an icon that can be repositioned on the screen.
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Reporting from
Android 17 now includes an app bubbling feature, allowing users to keep app icons persistently on screen for quick access. This functionality, currently available only on Pixel phones, will expand to other Android devices in the future.