Google has officially rolled out the Android Canary 2507 update, the second release under its newly introduced Canary channel. Designed specifically for developers, this experimental build brings cutting-edge features and system changes for early testing. The update is currently available for several Pixel devices, including the latest Pixel 9 series and Pixel 9a.
What Is Android Canary?
Earlier this month, Google replaced the traditional Android Developer Preview with a new Canary release channel. This shift allows for even earlier access to Android system builds, albeit with a warning. Canary releases are highly experimental and not suited for general users. These builds may include bugs, unfinished features, and unstable performance.
According to Google, the Canary builds serve as a playground for developers to explore and test upcoming APIs and system-level features. As such, it’s best to install them on a secondary device instead of your daily driver.
Android Canary 2507: Supported Pixel Devices
The Android Canary 2507 update includes an updated SDK and system images for the following Pixel devices:
- Google Pixel 9 Series
- Google Pixel 9a
- Google Pixel 8 Series
- Google Pixel Tablet
- Google Pixel Fold
- Google Pixel 7 Series
- Google Pixel 6 Series
These builds offer early-stage access to the upcoming Android version, with features still under heavy development.
New Features in Android Canary 2507
1. Graphical Linux App Support
One of the most anticipated updates in Canary 2507 is support for graphical Linux applications. This is enabled through Google’s Linux Terminal app, introduced earlier this year, which allows users to boot up Debian OS in a virtual machine on Android. With this latest update, Linux graphical apps can now run directly on supported Pixel devices.
This enhancement is a major step forward for developers, power users, and anyone looking to use Linux-based tools and applications on Android.
2. Expanded Dark Mode for All Apps
Another notable feature spotted in the 2507 release is an expanded dark mode setting. Traditionally, Android has offered a system-wide dark theme, but many apps still don’t natively support it. The new update forces dark mode in unsupported apps using a new “Expanded” option in the theme settings.
This function is similar to the existing “Override force-dark” toggle found under Developer Options, but is now more accessible via system settings. This not only improves user experience but also promotes visual consistency across apps.
Should You Install It?
While the new features are exciting, Google explicitly advises caution. The Canary builds are unstable and intended solely for developers. Bugs, app crashes, or system failures may occur, making them unsuitable for daily use.
If you’re still eager to try out the Android Canary 2507 update, it’s strongly recommended to use a test device. The preview is ideal for developers who want to get a head start on adapting their apps to future Android APIs.
Conclusion
Google’s Android Canary 2507 update sets the stage for what’s coming in the next major Android release. With features like graphical Linux app support and enhanced dark mode, it highlights Google’s efforts to improve flexibility, user customization, and development capabilities on Android. While it’s not yet stable, this update is a valuable sneak peek into Android’s future and a useful tool for developers staying ahead of the curve.
