Motorola Edge 70 Gets Android 17, but One Key Feature Is Missing

Motorola is surprisingly ramping up its software support. The regular Motorola Edge 70 is now receiving the final update to Android 17, including the redesigned Hello UI. The rollout is starting worldwide and delivers a 4.3 GB package with build number A17WRH.35-10.

With this move, the manufacturer is making a strong statement regarding update speed. The mid-range model is only the second smartphone in the Lenovo subsidiary's portfolio to receive the new operating system as a stable version – directly after the flagship Motorola Signature. Google's significant acceleration of the rollout this year was already evident when Android 17 launched its first beta versions for other manufacturers. Motorola is now capitalizing on this momentum, surprisingly and consistently.

This is what's included in the 4.3GB package for the Motorola Edge 70

The new user interface offers extensive improvements. Stackable widgets have been introduced to the home screen, and the system now fully supports theme-based app icons. Users who prefer the classic layout can also hide the text labels within the quick settings.

The new live updates are particularly exciting, displaying dynamic information such as food deliveries or vehicle status directly on the lock screen. It also includes an automatic notification summary for active chat groups and a smarter sorting system that quietly groups less important notifications in the background. For film enthusiasts, there are improved controls for manually adjusting brightness when playing HDR content.

A popular beta feature is missing from the final version.

Despite the long list of features, the final build is frustrating the community. During the Android 17 beta tests, many users celebrated the new 3D depth effect for lock screen wallpapers. This visual feature has vanished without a trace in the stable version A17WRH.35-10.

Understandably, this is frustrating if you've grown accustomed to a feature during testing. A Motorola employee confirmed on Reddit that there's currently no official timeline for bringing the depth effect back to the regular model. Anyone hoping the standard version would be completely on par with the top-of-the-line model in terms of software will be disappointed for now. The manufacturer's strong hardware performance was already evident in the Motorola Edge 70 Pro with its 6,500 mAh battery – making this slight setback in software refinement all the more noticeable.

Where Motorola stands in terms of update speed

A look at the history reveals a clear shift in update strategy. While it used to take months for new Android versions to roll out more widely, the current distribution process appears much more structured. The early release of the stable Android 16 update on the Moto Edge 50 was already an early indication of this change in direction.

The download is now available. You can manually check for installation in your device settings under Settings > System > System updates. Those downloading the 4.3 GB file should ensure a stable Wi-Fi connection and sufficient battery charge.

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