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Google Rolls Out Android 17 to Pixel Phones as Users Report 5G and eSIM Failures

The release adds on-device privacy and theft protections that may be constrained by early connectivity regressions on some Pixel devices.

Overview

  • Google has begun a staged rollout of Android 17 to its Pixel lineup with a broader release to other compatible phones planned later this year.
  • Android 17 adds specific privacy and security features including a biometric 'Mark as lost' lock, reduced passcode attempts, Live Detection for suspicious apps, three-hour hiding of one-time SMS codes, and Certificate Transparency enabled by default.
  • Shortly after installation some Pixel users reported loss of 5G, eSIMs not being recognized, and saved Wi‑Fi networks disappearing, with reports covering multiple Pixel models running the update.
  • Google had not publicly acknowledged the connectivity reports at time of reporting and affected users say a network reset via Settings > System > Reset > Reset network settings can temporarily restore 5G.
  • Many older phones from other manufacturers are expected to miss Android 17 under current update windows but Google confirmed extended Android 17 support for Pixel 6, 6 Pro and 6a, a reminder that vendor update policies shape who gets new OS privacy tools.