Android 17 Beta 3 Unveils Enhanced 'Bubbles' for Seamless Multitasking

Daily Technology

·

27/03/2026

ADVERTISEMENT

Android 17 Beta 3 has officially rolled out, bringing a significantly expanded "Bubbles" feature to users. While not entirely new, this iteration transforms Bubbles into a powerful multitasking platform, allowing any app to operate in a floating window. This update promises to enhance productivity, especially on larger and foldable displays, offering a more fluid way to manage multiple applications.

Key Takeaways

Android 17 Beta 3 introduces an enhanced "Bubbles" feature.
Bubbles now support any application, not just specific messaging apps.
The feature acts as a new multitasking platform, enabling floating app windows.
It is particularly beneficial for foldable devices and large screens.

Bubbles Evolve into a Multitasking Powerhouse

The "Bubbles" feature, previously seen in limited capacity with apps like Google Messenger, has been fully integrated and expanded in Android 17 Beta 3. This update allows any application to be launched into a floating window, which can then be minimized for quick access. This functionality is designed to streamline multitasking, enabling users to view and interact with multiple apps simultaneously without the need for traditional split-screen setups.

ADVERTISEMENT

Enhanced Multitasking for All Devices

This new multitasking capability is particularly impactful for foldable devices, such as the Pixel 10 Pro Fold, bridging the gap in multitasking features compared to other manufacturers. By allowing any app to be turned into a "bubble"—accessible via a long-press and a new minimize icon—users can easily switch between and recall applications from anywhere on the screen. Dismissing a bubble is as simple as dragging it to the bottom of the screen.

Availability and Future Implications

The expanded Bubbles feature is now live in Android 17 Beta 3 and is expected to remain a core part of the operating system through the remainder of the beta phase. This enhancement is anticipated to be a welcome addition for users of foldable devices and may also prove useful for those using standard slab-style smartphones, offering a more dynamic and efficient way to manage daily tasks.

Recommend

NVIDIA DLSS 5 Aims for Photorealism with AI Rendering

NVIDIA unveils DLSS 5, a new AI-powered upscaling technology promising photorealistic graphics. Explore how it compares to previous versions and what it means for gaming.

ADVERTISEMENT

Beyond Humanoids: The Real Future of Kitchen Automation

Explore the real future of kitchen automation. Discover why countertop cooking robots like Posha and Nosh are outpacing humanoids for near-term home use.

Apple's Next Chapter: Key Enhancements in iOS 26.4

Explore the key trends revealed in Apple's iOS 26.4 update, including AI-powered music, advanced creator tools, and enhanced accessibility features.

Beyond Chatbots: How AI Agents Like OpenClaw Are Redefining Automation

Explore the rise of autonomous AI agents like OpenClaw. Discover key trends in AI integration, proactive assistance, and the security challenges shaping our future.

ADVERTISEMENT

World's Smallest Atomic Clocks Poised to Revolutionize Drone Warfare

Discover how the world's smallest atomic clocks, developed by scientists, are set to revolutionize drone warfare and other defense applications with their unparalleled precision and compact size.

Apple's Next-Gen Apple TV and HomePod Mini Await Siri Overhaul for Launch

Apple's new Apple TV 4K and HomePod mini are ready but delayed, awaiting the launch of personalized Siri and Apple Intelligence features. Learn about the expected hardware upgrades and release window.

Turo Integrates with ChatGPT for Smarter Rental Car Searches

Turo partners with ChatGPT to offer a new AI-powered way to search and book rental cars using natural language prompts, simplifying the rental process.

ADVERTISEMENT

Siri Poised for Major AI Overhaul in iOS 27, Report Suggests

Apple is reportedly planning a major AI overhaul for Siri in iOS 27, aiming to transform the voice assistant into a more capable AI chatbot and compete with rivals like ChatGPT. The changes are expected to be announced at WWDC.

Agile Robots Taps Google DeepMind AI for Industrial Humanoids

Agile Robots partners with Google DeepMind to integrate Gemini AI models into its humanoid robots, joining a growing ecosystem alongside Boston Dynamics and Apptronik.

Google Gemini Rolls Out New Feature to Woo Users from ChatGPT

Google Gemini introduces a new tool allowing users to import chat history from ChatGPT and other AI services, aiming to attract new users with a seamless transition.

ADVERTISEMENT