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Android 17 Continue On: Google’s Answer to Apple Handoff

May 21 -

What Is Android 17’s Continue On Feature?

Google is introducing a new Android feature called Continue On, designed to let you start a task on your Android phone and seamlessly pick it up on a compatible tablet. This functionality closely mirrors Apple’s Handoff, aiming to create a more connected ecosystem for Android users.

How Continue On Works at Launch

At launch, Continue On will only support moving tasks from a smartphone to a tablet. Google plans to make it bidirectional in the future, but initially, Android tablet users will see a Continue On icon in the dock. This icon suggests the most recently used app from their phone, provided the same app is installed on the tablet.

Key Capabilities of Continue On

Open documents you were working on directly on the tablet
Jump into the email you just had open on your phone
In some cases, open the tablet’s browser to the best page to continue a web task

When Can You Test Continue On in Android 17?

Google says that Continue On will be available to test in Android 17’s RC1 build, the first release candidate version. However, the company has not yet detailed when that build will arrive. It also didn’t specify when tablet-to-mobile handoffs will be supported.

Broader Android Interoperability

Together with last week’s announcement of Android-powered Googlebook laptops, Continue On opens the door to wider Android interoperability. This could finally match Apple’s impressive inter-device coordination, making Android a more cohesive platform for multitasking and productivity.

Why Continue On Matters for Android Users

This feature is a significant step for Android, addressing a long-standing gap in cross-device functionality. By allowing users to seamlessly transition tasks between devices, Google is enhancing the user experience and competing directly with Apple’s ecosystem.