Android 17 Beta 4.1: Google apparently fixes last bugs before release

Actually, Google said in April that the update to Android 17 Beta 4 would be the "last planned beta" of the development cycle before the version would be released as a stable version. With Beta 4.1, the company is therefore coming around the corner a little surprisingly. Google also points out that some hardware partners are already offering betas for some of their devices.

According to the release notes, the Android 17 Beta 4.1 update is quite small, but is available for installation on Pixel 6 up to the devices in the new Pixel 10 series. Build CP21.260330.011.A1 is intended for Pixel 6/Pro/a Pixel 7/Pro, while CP21.260330.011 is for all other Pixel models.

Focus on Bug Fixes

In terms of new features, Beta 4.1 contains only five small bug fixes, but no new functions. The new features that Google considers most important were shown by the company during the Android Show: I/O Edition on May 12 – including the agentic AI Gemini Intelligence, which is, however, only intended for high-end devices.

Google explains that the update now released fixes a problem where the status bar incorrectly showed no signal bars despite a connection. The developers have also fixed a problem with UI synchronization where the quick control icon for mobile data remained active in flight mode.

Furthermore, there should be no more problems when connecting external displays – at least they should no longer turn black when a high resolution is selected. Google has also fixed a bug in Bluetooth audio transmission that led to playback interruptions after system interruptions such as timers. In addition, hearing aids should no longer be automatically removed from paired devices after inactivity or charging.

Android 17 Beta for "Partner Devices"

While Google only offers its betas for its Pixel models, the company points out that some hardware partners are offering versions of the Android 17 beta for selected smartphones.

Partners include Honor, iQOO, Lenovo/Motorola, OnePlus, Oppo, Realme, Sharp, Vivo, and Xiaomi. Interestingly, Google does not mention its close partner Samsung, even though the company has launched its beta program on One UI 9 based on Android 17 for the Galaxy S26 series.

For interested and adventurous owners of one of the compatible models, Google has created an overview page that leads to the respective beta programs.

On the partners' websites, users will find instructions on how to install the Android 17 beta. Most offer system images for download and flashing, while some also support over-the-air updates (OTA), such as Samsung via its own beta program.

(afl)