Google is reportedly in the process of revamping its UI for Android 16, and it seems that the changes might not be universally well-received.
Recent reports suggest that Google is gearing up to introduce a significant update to its design language with Android 16, known as Material 3 Expressive.
Although early Android 16 betas have maintained a similar appearance to Android 15, there are indications that more substantial changes could be on the horizon. These changes seem to draw inspiration from various sources and have the potential to divide opinions among users.
Material 3 Expressive appears to be taking on a slightly more ‘iOS’ look, with some noticeable alterations to the user interface. Android Authority has delved into the code of Android 16 beta 4 and uncovered hidden evidence of these UI modifications.
One notable change is the redesign of the combined notifications and Quick Settings panel. While the rumored split menu resembling iOS seems to have been put on hold, there are still elements that bear a resemblance to Apple’s operating system. These include resizable Quick Settings tiles, a category-based organization system, and a significant use of semi-transparency in the menu, app tray, and PIN entry screen. The backgrounds in these areas are heavily blurred, departing from Android 15’s plain backgrounds and mirroring iOS’s frosted Quick Settings menu.
Moreover, Google is experimenting with new, more prominent icons in the status bar for Wi-Fi, mobile data, airplane mode, and battery level. The Settings menu now features colorful icons and menu items presented in distinct cards. Additionally, users will have the option to choose from five new icon shapes: square, four-sided cookie, seven-sided cookie, arch, and complex clover.
Changes are also expected in the lock screen widget, which will centralize all information, and lock screen notifications may offer smaller, more discreet previews until tapped. The separate volume UI screen is receiving updates as well, with thinner volume bars, separated text for different volume categories, and a more squared-off volume bar, departing slightly from Android 15’s rounded style.
Overall, it seems that Material 3 Expressive will not bring about a completely new UI but will instead introduce significant changes to the familiar Android interface. As Google continues to refine the design of Android 16, users can expect a fresh and modernized look for their Android devices.
