Tech Desk 
Jan 16, 2026
Google is reportedly preparing a major change in how notifications and system toggles work in Android 17, providing its users a improved daily usability, and refining performance across phones, tablets, and foldables.
New leaks about Android 17 suggest that users could soon have a cleaner, more organised split instead of one large pull-down for everything.
Android 17 features
Here's all the major changes expected in Android 17 launch, which include:
- Notifications and Quick Settings may be split into separate panels
- Swipe down from one side for notifications, the other for controls
- Cleaner layout, less clutter
- Faster access to commonly used toggles
The latest leak suggested that Google is testing a true split layout in Android 17, which means that swiping from the left edge would show only notifications, while swiping from the right would bring up Quick Settings.
For regular Pixel users, this change seems to be optional. You’ll probably be able to go to Settings > Notifications and switch between the classic "Combined" view and the new "Separate" layout, as Android Authority reported earlier.
However, if you're a tablet or a foldable user, you might not have a choice. Split-view mode will be required on large-screen devices.
As per the recent leaks, Android 17 could bring back separate toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data. However, these all details are rumours and official information is still hidden.
Android 17 release date
Google hasn't officially confirmed Android 17 release date, but the rumoured launch timeline for the Android 17 is:
- Developer previews: Early 2026
- Public beta: Mid-2026
- Stable release: Later in 2026
- First devices: Pixel phones (Pixel 9, Pixel 10)
