Android 17 Beta 1: Pixel Launcher Gets Customizable Search Bar and More

Google has released the first beta of Android 17 for Pixel devices, bringing subtle but welcome user interface changes to the Pixel Launcher. The update, rolled out on February 13, 2026, focuses on improving the large-screen experience and performance, alongside these UI tweaks.

Slimmer Search Bar and Customizable Shortcuts

One of the most noticeable changes is the redesigned home screen search bar. Android 17 reverts to a slimmer design, reminiscent of older Pixel Launcher styles, moving away from the thicker colored borders of Android 16. More importantly, the search bar shortcut is now customizable.

Previously defaulting to an AI Mode shortcut, users can now swap it for tools like Gemini Live, Translate, Song Search, Weather, Dictionary, and more. Tapping a shortcut instantly updates the search bar and launches the selected feature. Currently, the voice search and Google Lens shortcuts remain uncustomizable.

At a Glance Widget Removal

Pixel users can now remove the “At a Glance” widget from their home screen. This feature, previously tested with select users in Android 16 QPR3 betas, is now widely available in the Android 17 beta 1 release. Removal is achieved by long-pressing the widget and selecting the removal option within the Pixel Launcher settings.

Minor UI Refinements

Beyond the search bar and widget changes, Android 17 beta 1 includes a few other minor UI refinements. The volume panel now features a settings icon at the bottom, providing clearer access to volume controls. The brightness icon in Quick Settings has been refreshed.

Android 17 Beta Availability

The Android 17 Beta is available for all Pixel devices currently receiving software updates, including models ranging from the Pixel 6 to the Pixel 10 series. Supported devices include: Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6a, Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7a, Pixel Tablet, Pixel Fold, Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, Pixel 8a, Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, Pixel 9a, Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, Pixel 10 Pro XL, and Pixel 10 Pro Fold. More information on getting Android 17 can be found on the Android Developers website.

Rollout Resumes After Brief Pause

The Android 17 beta rollout briefly paused due to minor stability issues in earlier test builds, but has now resumed, inviting developers and Pixel users in the Android Beta Program to test the update and provide feedback. Digital Trends reports that the update introduces refinements to background task efficiency, tighter privacy controls, and enhanced app compatibility tools.

Key Takeaways

• Android 17 Beta 1 introduces a slimmer, customizable search bar for the Pixel Launcher.
• Users can now remove the “At a Glance” widget from their home screen.
• Minor UI tweaks include a refreshed brightness icon and clearer volume panel access.
• The beta is available for Pixel devices from the 6 series up to the 10 series.