Android Introduces One of the Biggest Redesigns in Its History. This Is Android 16’s Material 3 Expressive

On Tuesday, Google officially announced the updates that will come with Android 16. Early versions of Android 16 had previously been available and showed minimal changes compared to the previous version. However, the company has completely redefined the system interface with one of the most significant redesigns in Android’s history.

Material 3 Expressive. Since the introduction of Material You in 2022, Android’s design has remained relatively stable. This continuity isn’t necessarily negative. Google’s operating system currently boasts a clean user interface that has allowed apps to adapt. However, an update was certainly due, especially with the anticipation that iOS 19 could also introduce major UI changes for Apple.

Material 3 Expressive establishes its own identity as a natural evolution from Material Design. It transforms previous understandings of design language, offering a more casual, customizable, and comprehensive experience.

An exciting new design language. The Material 3 Expressive update features a wider range of color palettes and a complete redesign of key elements such as the notification panel and status bar. Notably, the Android vertical progress bar will be replaced with a horizontal one, similar to iOS. Additionally, native apps and settings have also received a makeover, enhancing the overall interface to better integrate with these new color themes.

The launcher will remain largely unchanged, featuring the search bar at the bottom, customizable icons, and redesigned native widgets. It’s worth noting that Google showcased this interface on a Google Pixel device, so there may be slight variations on other devices.

Gmail on Material You. | Gmail on Material 3.

New features. Google has introduced a new function similar to the iPhone’s Live Activities. This allows apps to display information in real time. It’s particularly useful for food tracking apps, flight-related apps, and even Google Maps.

Additionally, the company has enhanced system animations, transparency effects, and native Android apps to fit this new design language. As shown in the image above, these changes are profound. With them, Google aims to create a more visually appealing design and improve user interaction, featuring larger and more accessible buttons.

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WearOS. Google is working to unify the design language across its software platforms, including WearOS, its operating system for smartwatches. As part of this effort, the company is introducing Material 3 to both Android and WearOS.

This update will significantly transform the interface of smartwatches. They’ll feature larger icons, redesigned visuals, new color palettes, and a more intuitive user experience. The goal is to enhance interactions on smaller screens.

Additionally, Gemini is set to be integrated into WearOS in the coming months, allowing users to engage with it similarly to how they do on their phones.

Gemini is coming to Android Auto.

The new design will extend to Android XR and will be partially implemented in Android Auto as well. In fact, every Google product based on Android will be updated to feature the new Material 3 design language.

Availability. Android 16 will introduce Material 3 starting this May, which means you can expect the next beta versions for Google Pixel devices to feature the new design. However, the design will only become fully official and stable with the final version.

Additionally, manufacturers will decide whether to adopt the new design language. Many custom user interfaces have their own design styles and may not adhere closely to Google’s design guidelines.

Images | Google

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