Android 16 UI Overhaul Adds iOS Elements

Google is reportedly working on a significant redesign of its UI for Android 16, which may not be well-received by everyone.

According to our previous report, Google is preparing to unveil a major update to its design language with Android 16, known as Material 3 Expressive.

Although the initial Android 16 betas have resembled Android 15, there could be substantial changes on the horizon. These changes seem to draw inspiration from various sources and could potentially divide opinions.

Material 3 Expressive looking a little more ‘iOS’

Android Authority has delved into the code of Android 16 beta 4 and discovered previously hidden evidence of some UI changes.

One significant change appears to be the design of the combined notifications and Quick Settings panel. While the rumored iOS-style split menu may not be happening, there are still elements that resemble Apple’s OS.

These elements include resizable Quick Settings tiles, a category-based organization system, and a significant amount of semi-transparency in the menu, app tray, and PIN entry screen. These areas feature heavily blurred backgrounds, unlike Android 15’s plain equivalents, reminiscent of iOS’s frosted Quick Settings menu.

New icons and menu design

Google is also experimenting with new, more noticeable icons in the status bar for Wi-Fi, mobile data, airplane mode, and battery level. Icons within the Settings menu now feature more color, and menu items are presented in distinct cards.

Additionally, Google will introduce five new icon shape options: square, four-sided cookie, seven-sided cookie, arch, and complex clover.

The lock screen widget will be revamped to centralize all information, and lock screen notifications may offer smaller, more discreet previews until tapped.

The separate volume UI screen is getting a makeover with thinner volume bars, separated text for Media, Call, Ring, and more, and a more squared-off volume bar shape, moving away slightly from Android 15’s rounded style.

All of this confirms our initial impression that Material 3 Expressive will not bring an entirely new UI but will represent a significant revamp of Android as we currently know it.