The Android 17 update is rolling out. Google brought Android 17 to Pixel phones first, and other brands are now following. Motorola, for example, started rolling it out to the Motorola Signature on 25 August and has listed more than 40 eligible phones.
If you’ve seen the notification, or you’re wondering when your phone will get it, this guide explains how to check eligibility, what’s new, what to do before you install it and how to fix common problems afterwards.
Quick Take
Before you install the Android 17 update:
- Check eligibility on your phone maker’s official update page
- Back up your photos, chats and important files
- Charge to at least 75% and connect to Wi-Fi, as Google recommends
- Free up storage; updates can be large
- Install it from Settings only, never from a link or APK file
Checked on 2 October 2026 using Google’s Android pages and published manufacturer rollout details. Update timing varies by brand, model and region.
Table of Contents
Which Phones Will Get the Android 17 update?
Google’s Pixel phones receive Android 17 first. Google said Android 17 features would come first to Pixel devices, with other manufacturers adding them in their own software.
Every other brand decides its own eligible models and schedule. The update usually reaches newer flagships first, then mid-range models, often over several months.
| Brand | Where to check |
|---|---|
| Google Pixel | Google’s Pixel update page and Settings on your phone |
| Motorola | Motorola has listed 40+ eligible phones across its Razr, Edge and Moto G series |
| Samsung | Samsung’s One UI update announcements and the Samsung Members app |
| OnePlus, Xiaomi, Vivo, OPPO, iQOO, Realme | The brand’s community forum or official update page |
A simple rule: if your phone is still within its promised years of software updates, it’s likely to get Android 17. Check the update policy for your exact model.
How to Check Your Current Android Version
Go to:
Settings → About phone → Android version
You’ll see your Android version, the date of your last security update and your Google Play system update. On some phones it’s under Settings → About phone → Software information.
What to Do Before You Install the Android 17 Update
- Back up your phone. Use Google One backup, Google Photos and your chat app’s backup, such as WhatsApp’s chat backup.
- Free up storage. Major updates need several gigabytes of free space to download and install.
- Charge to at least 75% or keep the phone plugged in.
- Use Wi-Fi. Updates are large, and mobile data can be slow or expensive.
- Update your apps in the Play Store first, so they’re ready for the new version.
- Pick a good time. The install and restart can take 15–30 minutes, and you can’t use the phone during it.
Short on space? Our guide on how to free up storage on your phone shows safe ways to clear room without deleting photos you care about.
How to Install the Android 17 update
The exact menu names vary by brand, but the steps are similar:
- Open Settings.
- Go to System → Software updates or System updates. On Samsung phones, it’s Software update.
- Tap Check for updates.
- If Android 17 is available, tap Download and install.
- When the download finishes, tap Restart now.
If no update appears, it simply hasn’t reached your phone yet. Rollouts are staged, so two people with the same model may get it days or weeks apart.
Never install the Android 17 update from a link, message or APK file. Fake “Android update” files are a common way to spread malware. Real updates only come through Settings. Our guide on how to spot phishing scams explains the warning signs.
What’s New in Android 17
According to Google and manufacturers’ announcements, highlights include:
- Mark as Lost: locks a lost phone so it can’t be unlocked without your fingerprint or face, and removes payment details
- Location button: share your precise location with an app just once, for better privacy
- Motion Assist: an on-screen overlay that moves with your vehicle to help reduce motion sickness when using your phone on the move
- Screen Reactions: record your screen and your front camera together
- Better Bubbles: open and switch between more apps in floating windows
- Notification grouping: apps’ notifications are bundled together to reduce clutter
- Gaming controls: remap game controller buttons
Brands also add their own features on top. Motorola, for example, highlights Live Updates in the status bar, more icon theming options, file sharing with iPhones via Quick Share and improved scam detection in Messages. Exact features depend on your brand and model.
The new security features are especially worth setting up. They pair well with the tips in our guide to protecting your online privacy.
Problems After the Android 17 Update? Try These Fixes
Battery draining faster
It’s normal for battery life to dip for a few days after a big update while the phone re-optimises apps in the background. If it doesn’t settle after about a week, check Settings → Battery → Battery usage for apps misbehaving. See our guide on how to make your phone battery last longer.
Phone feels slow or warm
Give it a day or two, then restart. Update all your apps in the Play Store, as some may need fixes for the new version.
An app crashes or won’t open
Update the app. If that doesn’t help, go to Settings → Apps → [app] → Storage and tap Clear cache. Avoid “Clear storage” unless you’re sure, as it deletes the app’s data.
The update failed to install
Check that you have enough free storage and battery, restart the phone and try again over Wi-Fi.
Can I go back to Android 16?
For most users, no. Downgrading is usually not supported and can erase your data. If something serious goes wrong, contact the brand’s authorised service centre.
Should You Install the Android 17 update Right Away?
- Yes, for most people, especially for the security fixes and anti-theft features
- Wait a few days if you rely on your phone for work and can’t risk downtime; early bugs are often fixed quickly
- Wait if a key app you depend on, such as a banking or work app, has reported problems
If your phone isn’t eligible and no longer gets updates, it may be time to plan an upgrade. Read what to consider before buying your next smartphone first.
Aadyanix Verdict: Is the Android 17 update Worth Installing?
Yes. Android 17 brings useful privacy and anti-theft features, plus quality-of-life improvements like better notifications and multitasking.
Just prepare first: back up, free up storage, charge your phone and use Wi-Fi. Install only from Settings, never from a link.
If the Android 17 update hasn’t reached your phone yet, be patient. Staged rollouts can take weeks, and checking your brand’s official page is the best way to know when it’s coming.
Android 17 update: Frequently Asked Questions
Is my phone eligible for Android 17?
Check your phone maker’s official update page or community forum. Phones still within their promised software-update period are the most likely to receive it.
Why haven’t I received the Android 17 update yet?
Updates roll out in stages by model and region. Keep checking Settings, and make sure your current software is fully up to date.
Will updating to Android 17 delete my data?
A normal system update doesn’t erase your data, but it’s always wise to back up first in case something goes wrong.
How long does the Android 17 update take?
Typically 15–30 minutes or more, depending on your phone, the update size and your internet speed.
Is it safe to download Android 17 from a website?
No. Install updates only through your phone’s Settings. Files from links or messages may contain malware.
