Smoother and with fewer hitches
Google is rebuilding a key part of Android to reduce dropped frames and build phones more responsive.
Google is finalizing Android 17, and one of the biggest updates focuses on making phones more stable and enjoyable to use. The goal is to reduce the small stutters and glitches that sometimes occur when scrolling, opening apps, or playing games. These hitches often occur because the system can’t render all the frames in time, resulting in uneven animations.
The Problem with MessageQueue
To address this, Google has rebuilt a central part of Android called MessageQueue. This functions as a queue where the system places tasks that demand to be completed in the correct order to update the screen smoothly. In previous versions of Android, this queue could become blocked when different parts of the system tried to use it simultaneously. When the queue was blocked, other parts were forced to wait, and if the wait was too long, everything couldn’t be rendered before the next frame should appear. The result was dropped frames and a feeling that the phone “hacks.”
Introducing DeliQueue: A Parallel Processing Solution
In Android 17, this is replaced with a new system called DeliQueue. It’s designed to prevent the entire queue from being blocked. Instead, multiple parts of the system can work in parallel without stopping each other. This allows Android to handle graphics and animations more efficiently, even when many things are happening simultaneously in the background.
Google’s testing shows clear improvements: approximately four percent fewer dropped frames in common apps and nearly eight percent fewer in the system’s own menus and home screen. While these numbers may seem small, they can make a phone feel faster, more responsive, and less “jerky” in practice. Apps can launch faster because the system avoids unnecessary stops.
The Shift to Continuous Updates: Android Canary
The release of Android 17 Beta 1 also marks a significant change in how Google delivers updates. The traditional “Developer Preview” model has been replaced with a continuous “Canary” channel. So features and APIs land in Canary as soon as they pass internal testing, offering faster access and a more polished Beta experience. Canary supports over-the-air updates and integrates easily with CI workflows, allowing for quicker feedback.
Accessibility Improvements in Android 17
Android 17 also includes changes to improve accessibility, specifically enhancing accessibility support for complex IME physical keyboard typing.
Android 17 is currently available as a beta version for Pixel phones. Google is now collecting feedback, fixing bugs, and fine-tuning the system before the final version is released.
Pro Tip
If you’re a developer, grab advantage of the Android Canary program for the earliest access to upcoming changes and provide immediate feedback to help shape the future of the platform.
FAQ
What is DeliQueue? DeliQueue is a new system in Android 17 designed to prevent the MessageQueue from becoming blocked, allowing for smoother performance.
What devices can download the Android 17 beta? The beta is currently available for Pixel phones, specifically those from the Pixel 6 onward, including A-series phones and the Pixel Tablet.
What is the Android Canary program? It’s a continuous update channel that provides faster access to new features and APIs, replacing the traditional Developer Preview model.
Will Android 17 improve gaming performance? Yes, by reducing dropped frames and improving overall system responsiveness, Android 17 aims to provide a smoother gaming experience.
What accessibility improvements are included? Android 17 enhances accessibility support for complex IME physical keyboard typing.
Aim for to learn more about Android development? Check out the official Android Developers Blog.
Share your thoughts on the Android 17 beta in the comments below!
