Google has started the next major Android update cycle by rolling out Android 17 Beta 1. This first public beta is intended for early adopters, app developers, and enthusiasts who want to test new features, performance improvements, and updated developer APIs before the stable release arrives.

What is Android 17 Beta 1?

Android 17 Beta 1 is the first broadly available pre release build in the Android 17 timeline. Compared to early previews, the beta phase is typically more stable, but it can still include bugs, app incompatibilities, increased battery drain, and performance issues. Install it only if you are comfortable troubleshooting or using a secondary device.

Who should install the Android 17 beta (and who should wait)?

The beta is best for users who want early access and can tolerate instability. If your phone is mission critical, waiting for the stable release is usually the safer choice.

Good candidates: developers, testers, enthusiasts, and people with a backup phone
Should wait: primary phone users, people who rely on banking or work apps, and anyone who cannot risk data loss

Before you install: critical checklist

Regardless of installation method, preparation reduces risk.

Back up your phone (cloud and local if possible). Beta installs can go wrong, and leaving beta can wipe data depending on timing.
Charge to at least 50% (preferably keep it plugged in).
Update your apps and ensure you know your Google account credentials.
Confirm device eligibility for Android 17 beta builds (most commonly supported first on Google Pixel devices).

How to install Android 17 Beta 1 (recommended: Android Beta Program)

The simplest method for most users is enrolling through the Android Beta Program. Once enrolled, your phone receives the beta as an over the air update, similar to a normal system update.

Step 1: Visit the official Android Beta Program page while signed into the Google account used on your phone.
Step 2: Find your eligible device and choose Opt in.
Step 3: On your phone, go to Settings and open System updates (wording may vary by device).
Step 4: Tap Check for update, then download and install Android 17 Beta 1.
Step 5: Reboot when prompted, then allow time for apps to optimize after the first boot.

Alternative method: Factory Image (advanced, usually wipes data)

Advanced users sometimes install a Factory Image to manually flash Android 17. This approach is commonly used for clean installs, device recovery, or specific testing needs, but it often wipes the phone. Use this route only if you understand bootloader unlocking, flashing tools, and the data loss implications.

How to leave the Android 17 Beta Program without losing data

This is one of the most common questions: Can you leave beta after installing Android 17 and keep your data? The answer depends on what build you are returning to.

If you leave beta while Android 17 is still pre release: you will typically be offered a downgrade update back to the latest stable Android version, and that downgrade usually wipes device data.
If you leave beta after the stable public version of Android 17 is installed on your phone: you can generally opt out and continue receiving stable updates without wiping, because you are no longer downgrading.

Practical tip: if you want to avoid a wipe, consider staying enrolled until your device receives the stable Android 17 release, then opt out once you are on the stable build.

Troubleshooting: common Android 17 beta installation issues

No update appears: confirm you opted in with the correct Google account, then reboot and check again.
Not enough storage: free space, then retry the download.
Battery drain or heat: allow 24 to 48 hours after install for indexing and optimization, then reassess.
App crashes: update the app, clear cache, or report the issue to the developer.

FAQ

Is Android 17 Beta 1 stable enough for daily use?
It is more stable than early developer builds, but it can still break apps or features. Use it on a secondary device if possible.

Will enrolling in the beta erase my data?
Enrolling and updating via OTA typically does not wipe data. Downgrading or certain manual flashing methods can wipe data.

Do I need to install anything special to join the beta?
No. For most users, enrolling in the Android Beta Program and installing the OTA update is all that is required.

Bottom line

Android 17 Beta 1 is now rolling out and offers early access to improvements and new capabilities. The safest installation path for most users is the official Android Beta Program OTA update. If you plan to leave the beta later, remember that opting out before the stable release usually triggers a downgrade that can erase your data, so back up first and plan your exit timing carefully.

First Android 17 Beta Released: How to Install, Eligible Devices, and How to Leave the Beta Safely