Android 17 Beta 1 has introduced a Handoff feature, allowing users to transfer app activities seamlessly between nearby Android devices. This feature is part of Android 17's developer APIs, although it is not yet fully visible in the user interface.
Handoff Functionality
Handoff enables an app to mark its current activity as transferable. When a second Android device is nearby, the system can display the activity through the launcher or taskbar. By tapping the surfaced app on the second device, users can trigger a state transfer, allowing the receiving device to open the app and resume the activity at the same point. This functionality is integrated directly into the Android lifecycle.
Developer Integration
To enable Handoff, developers must use the new method setHandoffEnabled(), indicating that an activity can be handed off. When a second device requests the activity, Android calls a callback, onHandoffActivityRequested(), which allows the app to package and transfer its current state.
App-to-Web Fallback
Android 17 also supports an app-to-web fallback. If the receiving device does not have the app installed, the system can redirect the user to a web version of the content. However, Google has not specified the extent of this fallback's support or the configuration requirements for developers.
Handoff represents a significant advancement in cross-device continuity, surpassing previous integrations like notifications and messaging. Practical applications include continuing an email or document edit on another device, enhancing user convenience across phones and tablets.
