The release of Android 17 under the codename Cinnamon Bun is coming very soon, and over time the update will reach a huge number of smartphones, including quite budget models. But installing the system and comfortably using it are two different stories. Many iPhone users are already seriously tempted by the new features to switch platforms, and it’s understandable: the features of Android 17 are truly impressive. But they will only shine on fresh hardware. Below are 7 smartphones for Android 17 that will definitely deliver under the new system.
Breaking down which smartphones will actually handle Android 17
Why You Shouldn’t Buy Cheap Smartphones for Android 17
The logic is simple. A cheap smartphone will update to Android 17, but with a delay of six months to a year after release, and its weak processor and small amount of memory will quickly hit a ceiling. Animations will stutter, the back will heat up, and fresh AI-based features may not work at all. By the way, if you’re unsure about your current smartphone, we’ve explained in detail how to find out whether your phone will get Android 17. And there’s no point in buying a really budget device to grow into — in a year it will barely be breathing.
We think buying a cheap phone for Android 17 is definitely not worth it
It’s much wiser to choose a sub-flagship or flagship for Android 17 with top-tier Snapdragon or MediaTek chips. They deliver good performance and a power reserve for several years ahead, and right now, while prices are at a pleasant level, it’s a good time to buy. Let’s break down specific models for different budgets.
Google Pixel 10: First to Get Android 17
Let’s start with the obvious. If you want to get Android 17 first, in its pure form and with all the features right away, there’s simply no alternative to the Pixel 10. Google smartphones always lead the update queue, and they receive the new system along with all AI innovations on launch day, while other brands need months to adapt.
Pixel 10 is made for those who want pure Android and want it before everyone else
The proprietary Tensor G5 chip is designed not for gaming records but for artificial intelligence and camera performance, and this is where the Pixel 10 excels like few others. Photos on par with top flagships, voice translation, smart suggestions — all of this is processed right on the device. Add to that seven years of guaranteed updates, and you get the smartphone with the longest support in this list. It’s not officially sold in Russia, but you can get it on AliExpress.
POCO F8 Pro: A Powerful Smartphone at an Affordable Price
This is an option for those who want maximum performance without overpaying. The POCO F8 Pro carries a flagship Snapdragon 8 Elite processor — the same one found in smartphones twice the price — so it handles any games and heavy tasks with ease. This is genuine flagship hardware without the brand markup.
A great option for those who love powerful hardware at a reasonable price
A standout feature of this model is its massive 6210 mAh battery in a relatively thin body, plus a 100W charger included in the box. The speakers are tuned in collaboration with Bose and sound noticeably better than average. It starts at approximately 36,000 rubles, and for that money, finding a powerful smartphone at this level is quite a challenge. If you want Android 17 to fly without price compromises, this is it.
OnePlus 15R: An Affordable Smartphone with a Powerful Processor
The OnePlus 15R bets on smoothness and the signature OxygenOS optimization. Inside is the fresh Snapdragon 8 Gen 5, a powerful sub-flagship chip that made its global debut in this very model, complemented by a bright 165 Hz display and a massive 7400 mAh battery. For dynamic gaming and a long day without a charger, the combination is nearly perfect.
OnePlus 15R — a balanced option with a good chipset that won’t be scared of Android 17
The cameras here are nothing fancy, but when it comes to speed and endurance there are absolutely no questions. It costs approximately from 42,000 rubles, and sometimes noticeably less: recently the OnePlus 15R dropped to 32,000 rubles, so the timing for a purchase is especially good right now. Android 17 on this hardware will run like a dream — and not just it, but a couple or three subsequent system versions as well.
iQOO Neo 11: A Good Chinese Smartphone at a Low Price
If battery life is your top priority in a smartphone, take a look at the iQOO Neo 11. Its trump card is a huge 7500 mAh battery, which easily lasts a couple of days with active use. And to leave no doubts about speed, it’s equipped with the flagship MediaTek Dimensity 9500, one of the most powerful processors available.
