Emir BardakçıWe are still months away from the official release of the next major Android version, but leaks are already painting a clear picture. Recent reports surfacing from an internal OEM AOSP build suggest that Google is finally focusing on privacy and visual refinement.
The biggest highlight? A native App Lock feature is finally coming to stock Android. While this is groundbreaking for Pixel users, those of us familiar with the Xiaomi HyperOS ecosystem might feel a sense of déjà vu. Here is what we know so far about Android 17.
TL;DR
- App Lock is finally arriving natively on Android 17, allowing users to restrict access to specific apps directly from the launcher.
- Screen Recording gets a UI overhaul, bringing tablet-style controls to smartphone screens.
- Visual Changes include new translucent volume bars that mimic a “liquid glass” aesthetic.
- Xiaomi Users have been enjoying similar features for over 10 years now; therefore, they can say that they were ahead of the curve.
Native App Lock: Better Late Than Never?
Stock Android users have been relying on third-party apps to lock their sensitive applications for a long time now. However, it seems Android 17 will bring a much-needed feature to Android devices.
From the leaks we’ve seen so far, it seems that a new option will be available in the context menu. If you long-press an application icon, a “Lock app” option will appear on the context menu. This option will allow you to lock your application using your fingerprint or PIN code.
I think it’s interesting to note how Google has decided to highlight this feature in Android 17. As a long-time Xiaomi User, I can say that I’ve been enjoying this feature for a long time now. App Lock has been a part of the MIUI experience since its inception.
How Will It Work?
From the screenshots we’ve seen so far, it seems that the feature will work as follows: once you’ve locked an application, a lock screen message will appear.
In addition to this, we’ve seen some code hints that notification content will not appear when an application has been locked. This feature will ensure that sensitive content does not appear in the status bar.
The Xiaomi Advantage
While it is always good to see these features being included with the Android OS, we are already miles ahead with our Security App with Xiaomi HyperOS. Therefore, if you are already a proud owner of a Xiaomi device, then you don’t have to wait any longer for the Android 17 rollout.
What’s Next?
It is too early to tell exactly what the final features will be with the rollout of Android 17. The features are currently undergoing internal tests. However, one thing is for sure: Google is focusing on user privacy and looks. We will continue to dig deeper into the code to find out what other “borrowed” features are being included with the rollout.
Yeah, I think you mean ‘mid to high’ end phones. because Xiaomi doesn’t think their budget users deserve to have app lock.