Earlier this week, Google formally released Android 17, and some of its features indicate that this update is designed specifically for foldables, while missing major additions for flat-screen flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S-series.

Android 17 is tailored for large screens, especially foldables with features like app bubbles. It allows users to turn any app into a floating bubble icon, and it has a dedicated dock at the bottom of the screen. You can switch between apps with one tap and resize or maximize them to full-screen for faster multitasking.

Samsung phones already come with features like smart pop-up windows, which you minimize into a bubble. But Google’s version looks more streamlined.

The next feature is the new foldable gaming mode, using a 50-50 layout. It turns the second half into a dynamic gamepad, which is great for gaming in foldable devices.

The software has new parental controls and new security improvements, which will also make their way to Galaxy devices once the update is released.

Samsung and Google’s partnership

Last year, Samsung made a huge change in its software release cycle. The company gave foldables first seat in launching a new Android version, and the Galaxy S-series brings a separate feature pack over the same platform.

For example, the Galaxy Z Fold 7 and Flip 7 were the first to run One UI 8.0 out of the box, and the Galaxy S26 series was released with One UI 8.5. Both have Android 16 in the base.

Besides, Google has found two major global Android smartphone launch events to promote its ecosystem, and both come from Samsung, its biggest partner.

This year won’t be different; Samsung will bring a top Android executive to talk about the new foldable features, One UI 9.0, and the Gemini for foldable devices. However, it’s already clear that Android 17 is likely to miss any surprising elements for the Galaxy S-series, while prioritizing the Galaxy Z Fold and Flip devices.

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