Summary created by Smart Answers AI
In summary:
- Tech Advisor reports that Android 17 will introduce increased blur effects and translucent design elements, including frosted backgrounds and a translucent volume bar.
- The update brings practical improvements like split Notification and Quick Settings menus, plus separate Wi-Fi and mobile data controls for better convenience.
- These visual changes offer subtle enhancement over Android 16, creating more depth while remaining less pronounced than iOS’s Liquid Glass effect.
Android 17 is gearing up to enhance its visual design with increased blur effects, as revealed by internal build images seen by 9to5Google. The upcoming mobile OS update, particularly for Pixel phones, is set to introduce a frosted background effect along with solid menus, emphasizing a translucent design aesthetic.
The leaked screenshots indicate that elements like the volume bar will be displayed in a transparent container, allowing users to see the background content through it. Additionally, reports suggest that the ‘blur’ effect will be influenced by the chosen Dynamic Colour theme, providing a personalized touch to the overall visual experience.
Chris Martin / Foundry
Android 17 tweaks
Despite the visual enhancements in Android 17, the changes are incremental compared to the Material 3 Expressive redesign introduced during Android 16’s lifespan. The blur effect in Android 17 is described as more subtle than iOS’s Liquid Glass effect, maintaining a balance between depth and simplicity.
Notable updates in Android 17 include the option to split the Notification and Quick Settings menus, aligning with industry trends seen in other Android devices and iOS. Moreover, Google is streamlining user convenience by providing separate controls for Wi-Fi and mobile data within the Quick Settings menu.

