Google has just released Android 17 QPR1 Beta 3, introducing several UI changes. One of the most notable updates is to the media app switcher. It is no longer a carousel.



New media app switcher in Android 17
The current media app switcher in Android 16 requires users to swipe left and right to navigate between active media apps. However, Android 17 is set to introduce a new, more convenient, and intuitive switching style. This change aims to make the process of switching between media apps more straightforward and less prone to errors, especially for new users.
In the updated UI, Android minimises other media apps into small cards. When tapped, these cards expand to provide more information. This design not only enhances convenience but also makes it clearer to users that they can switch between media apps on the fly. The new layout reduces the likelihood of mistakes, making the process more intuitive.
However, there is a trade-off. The minimised audio apps now take up more space, which results in the active music app tab and its player controls becoming smaller. This change may affect the user experience, but it is important to remember that this is a beta version. As a working prototype, it is subject to change before the stable release of Android 17.
The beta versions are designed for this purpose, to allow for adjustments and improvements based on user feedback. Therefore, the media player switcher may undergo further changes before the final release.
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