Google’s Android 17 is approaching its final release, with multiple public betas available for Pixel 6 and newer devices, but the upcoming mobile OS retains a notable shortcoming in the design of its first-party widgets.
This oversight impacts the user experience, particularly on Google Pixel phones, where the company’s own widgets are described as dated, cluttered, and inefficient in their use of screen space.
Public betas for Android 17 have been accessible since February 2026, allowing owners of compatible Pixel devices, including the Pixel 6 series and newer models, to test the new operating system. The final version is anticipated to launch as early as June.
However, despite these ongoing beta cycles, Google has reportedly made no changes to address the aesthetic and functional issues of its first-party widgets. These widgets are frequently criticized for being too large, cluttered, or aesthetically unappealing, creating a disjointed visual experience on the home screen.
This problem is particularly evident on larger devices, such as the Pixel 10 Pro XL, where unsightly widgets can quickly overwhelm the display. Users looking to try the beta can enroll their devices through the Android Beta for Pixel program.
Conversely, Android 17 introduces several welcomed improvements. These include the return of separate toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data in quick settings, the option to remove app labels, and a dedicated volume slider for virtual assistants like Gemini.
The issue of subpar first-party widgets has been an ongoing concern for Pixel users. The continued lack of attention to this aspect in Android 17 represents a significant missed opportunity, according to a report. Users seeking to explore Pixel devices can visit the Google Store for more information.
Unless Google implements substantial changes before the final release of Android 17, the perceived quality of its stock widgets is expected to remain a point of contention for many users.
