The upcoming Android 16 update from Google is expected to bring a significantly revamped user interface, with recent leaks revealing various enhancements anticipated by June. Notably, the update aims to overhaul the notifications and Quick Settings sections. Reports indicate that the new version will introduce a background blur effect in Quick Settings among other areas, along with updated icons in the status bar. Additional features are said to include new animations designed for improved user interactions such as dismissing notifications and changing settings. These elements have been identified in the Android 16 Beta 4, although they have yet to be activated.
Anticipated Redesign of the Status Bar in Android 16
A report from Android Authority highlights intriguing design modifications discovered in the Android 16 Beta 4. Among these changes, the icons for Wi-Fi, mobile data, airplane mode, and battery status in the status bar have reportedly seen a redesign. The icons for Wi-Fi and mobile data are now segmented, while the 5G and airplane mode indicators appear bolder than previous iterations.
The battery icon has also been enhanced, featuring a vibrant green background when charging and switching to red during low battery conditions. Furthermore, the clock text has been adjusted to a larger and bolder font, improving visibility.
Additional enhancements are set to include resizable Quick Settings tiles, simplified one-click toggles for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, a reorganized tile editor, and easy shortcuts for managing tiles. A redesigned brightness slider, downward-facing arrows for expandable tiles, and the new updated segmented Wi-Fi icon are also expected. While the new layout should be familiar to users, substantial changes are on the horizon.
The Quick Settings panel may feature a blurred background, which is also expected to be implemented in Pixel Launcher’s app drawer, the recents menu (multitasking view), and the PIN entry screen. The lock screen is set for updates that will refresh the layout for the date and weather, making it cleaner and more user-friendly. Contextual information is reported to be repositioned at the top in the absence of notifications.
Moreover, enhancements will include a new compact notification shelf, revisions to the PIN entry page, a redesigned volume slider, and a fresh media output switcher. A reworked Settings app is also anticipated to align with Google’s new Material 3 Expressive design principles. Additionally, new icon shape options may be introduced for the Pixel Launcher.
Introduction of New Animations in Android 16
A separate report from Android Authority provides insights into new animations slated for inclusion in Android 16. The update is set to incorporate physics-based animations for dismissing notifications, wherein partially swiped notifications will bounce back into position if users don’t complete the swipe action. Users can expect to see a new animation effect when toggling Quick Settings as well.
There are also subtle alterations to the recents menu; when a user begins to swipe up on a task but releases it before fully dismissing, the next task will exhibit a slight jiggle. Moreover, a brief animation will appear when the power button is long-pressed.
In addition to this, the update is reportedly introducing a waveform icon in the volume indicator when audio playback is active, as well as an animation effect when users tap the clock.
All these features were uncovered in Android 16 Beta 4, but have yet to be activated, suggesting that their official rollout may be planned for a future quarterly update.
