Android 17 Beta 3: APIs Reach Platform Stability and New Developer Features
Google has released Android 17 Beta 3, which has reached Platform Stability. APIs are now finalized with no further changes. The codename Cinnamon Bun has been replaced with Android 17. This allows developers to test apps in conditions close to the final version.
The update focuses on security, cameras, audio, and UI. It supports Pixel devices from model 6 and up, including Pixel 10, Fold, and Tablet. The final release is expected in Q2 2026.
Strengthening Protection for Dynamic Code Loading
The DCL mechanism has been extended to native libraries loaded via System.load(). Previously, protection applied only to DEX- and JAR-files. Now the system blocks malicious code substitution in native components.
This is critical for apps with dynamic library loading. Developers get enhanced resistance to attacks without code changes.
Certificate Transparency is enabled by default. The public registry tracks SSL certificates, simplifying authenticity verification.
APIs for Customizing Photo Picker and Cameras
PhotoPickerUiCustomizationParams has been introduced for customizing the photo picker interface. Parameters allow changing aspect ratios (from 1:1 to 9:16) and other UI elements.
Cameras now support RAW14. Manufacturers get vendor-extension APIs:
- Super Resolution;
- Advanced noise reduction modes;
- AI quality optimizers.
Apps can detect camera types via new APIs: built-in, USB webcam, or virtual. This ensures adaptation to the video source, minimizing artifacts.
Audio and Device Management
Support for hearing aids via Bluetooth Low Energy. The new TYPE_BLE_HEARING_AID type allows splitting system sound output:
- Notifications and calls to the phone;
- Alarms to the hearing aid;
- Independent volume control.
The USE_LOCATION_BUTTON permission embeds a system button for one-time precise location access. It simplifies UX without persistent permissions.
Input Settings, Signing, and UI
Separate options for passwords: characters from physical keyboards are hidden immediately, from the screen—with a delay. It adapts to hardware keyboards.
APK signing with a hybrid algorithm: classical cryptography + ML-DSA (resistant to quantum attacks). Ensures future-proof security.
Option to hide signatures under icons for a minimalist launcher. Java support from OpenJDK 25 is integrated into the platform.
| Feature | Description | Impact on Development |
|---------|-------------|-----------------------|
| DCL for native libs | Protection for System.load() | Blocks malware |
| PhotoPicker params | Custom UI | Flexible photo selection |
| Camera API | Types + vendor extensions | Video optimization |
| BLE Hearing Aid | Audio splitting | Accessibility apps |
| ML-DSA signing | Quantum resistance | Long-term security |
Key Takeaways
- APIs stabilized: switch to Beta 3 for final testing;
- DCL and Certificate Transparency strengthen default security;
- Camera APIs (RAW14, types, extensions) for pro apps;
- BLE Hearing Aid and location button improve accessibility;
- Hybrid APK signing prepares for the post-quantum era.
— Editorial Team
No comments yet.