Google has revealed the key features coming to Android 17 at its annual developer conference, including a native desktop mode, completely redesigned notification system, and advanced privacy controls.

Native Desktop Mode

Android 17 will include a built-in desktop mode that activates when the phone is connected to an external display. Unlike Samsung's DeX, Google's implementation works with any USB-C to HDMI adapter and provides a full desktop-like experience with floating windows, a taskbar, and multi-monitor support.

Redesigned Notifications

The notification system has been completely rebuilt with a new "Smart Stack" feature that uses AI to group and prioritize notifications based on the user's habits and context. Notifications can now be rich interactive widgets that allow users to respond to messages, control media, and manage tasks directly from the notification shade.