Android 16 leak reveals major visual redesign: New icons, animations and quick settings revamp tipped
Google's forthcoming Android 16 update could introduce one of the most significant visual redesigns in recent years, according to newly surfaced details from a leaked beta version. The update, which is expected to roll out by June, may bring sweeping changes to the interface, including revamped notifications, Quick Settings, and status bar icons.
A report byAndroid Authority reveals that Android 16 Beta 4 contains several hidden design upgrades, though they are yet to be activated. Among the key enhancements is a refreshed status bar, with redesigned icons for Wi-Fi, mobile data, airplane mode, and battery. The Wi-Fi and mobile data indicators have reportedly been separated into distinct segments, while the icons for 5G and airplane mode appear noticeably bolder.
The battery icon is also receiving a makeover, featuring a more vivid appearance. It is said to display a green background when charging and switch to red to signal a low battery. Additionally, the clock on the status bar is expected to use a larger and bolder font for improved readability.
Google's Quick Settings panel is set for a notable revamp as well. The update could introduce resizable tiles, streamlined one-tap toggles for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and a more organised tile editor, allowing users to easily add or remove tiles with a single tap. A redesigned brightness slider, expandable tiles marked with downward arrows, and a new segmented Wi-Fi icon are also reportedly on the way.
In terms of aesthetics, the Quick Settings menu is tipped to adopt a blurred background—a visual effect that may extend to other areas of the system, such as the app drawer in Pixel Launcher, the multitasking view, and the PIN entry screen. The lock screen is said to be receiving layout adjustments, with date and weather details positioned for a cleaner look, and contextual information placed at the top when no notifications are present.
Other reported interface tweaks include a compact notification shelf, a redesigned volume slider, updates to the PIN entry page, and a new media output switcher. The Settings app is expected to align with Google's latest Material 3 Expressive design guidelines, while the Pixel Launcher may soon offer custom icon shape options.
Beyond visual updates, Google is also reportedly working on adding more fluid animations throughout the system. The report highlights new physics-based animations for dismissing notifications—partially swiped notifications may now bounce back if released before being dismissed. Similarly, a subtle 'jiggle' effect could be introduced in the recent apps menu when a user begins swiping a task but lets go before completing the action.
Additional animation tweaks are said to include a waveform icon within the volume indicator when audio is playing, a tap animation for the clock, and a brief animation triggered when holding down the power button.
Although these features have been identified in Android 16 Beta 4, they are not yet enabled, suggesting Google may save their release for a future quarterly update.
First Published: 2 May 2025, 03:43 PM IST
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
17 minutes ago
- Time of India
Google strikes deal to buy fusion power from MIT spinoff Commonwealth
Alphabet's Google said on Monday it has struck a deal to buy power from a project in Virginia fueled by fusion, the reaction that powers the sun and the stars but is not yet commercial on signed what it called the technology's first direct corporate power purchase agreement with Commonwealth Fusion Systems , a company that spun off from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2018. The deal is for 200 megawatts of power, about enough to power a small city, from CFS's ARC project that is being developed in Virginia, home to the world's biggest hub of energy-hungry data centers. Financial details of the deal were not at national laboratories and companies have been trying for decades to use lasers or, in the case of CFS, large magnets to foster fusion reactions, in which light atoms are forced together to release large amounts of energy. In 2022, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California briefly achieved net energy gain in a fusion experiment using achieving so-called "engineering break-even," in which more energy comes out of a reaction than the overall energy that goes into a fusion plant to get a reaction going, has been elusive. And for a plant to generate power from fusion, the reactions must be constant, not rare."Yes, there are some serious physics and engineering challenges that we still have to work through to make it commercially viable and scalable," Michael Terrell, Google's head of advanced energy, told reporters in a call. "But that's something that we want to be investing in now to realize that future." As artificial intelligence and data centers boost power demand around the world, interest in fusion is spiking. Fusion, unlike nuclear fission, in which atoms are split, does not generate large amounts of radioactive waste. In addition, fusion, if successful, could help fight climate aims to generate power from the 400 MW project known as ARC in the early 2030s but must first clear the scientific hurdles."Without partnership and without being bold and setting a goal and going for it, you won't ever reach over those challenges," Bob Mumgaard, CFS's CEO and co-founder, told reporters. He said the ARC plant will teach CFS about the "teething phase" of fusion, in which he expects to learn about how often fusion machines break down and how they can run also said on Monday it was increasing its investment in CFS, but did not disclose the amount. Google was one of many investors that invested a total of $1.8 billion into CFS in 2021. Mumgaard said Google's investment on Monday was "comparable" to its 2021 one.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
Pixel users in India may finally get Google's Call Screening feature
Pixel users in India, Google may soon have good news for you. According to an Android Authority report, the company may introduce the much-requested call screening feature to Pixel smartphone users in India. For those unaware, the company first launched Call Screening feature in 2018. It uses artificial intelligence (AI) to offer smart replies, so users can respond to common questions quickly without having to talk. Now, an APK teardown of the Phone by Google app shows that the feature may finally be introduced for the Indian market. The publication says that it was able to spot one of the ZIP files containing the text "hi_in", which stands for Hindi (language) and India (localisation). This file might be a resource used by the Call Screening feature in the phone app on Google Pixel smartphones . While they were able to get the feature work, 'it seems to be a work in progress right now because it doesn't recognize Hindi speech just yet, and can only recognize English'. Further, the report says that unlike in the US, where Call Screening works automatically, the feature in India seems to use a manual method. This means that users may need to tap a 'Screen call' button when they receive a call to start the screening, instead of the phone doing it on its own. Call screening coming to iPhones with iOS 26 by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Scientists found a Plane in the Ocean, pulled it out ierer Read More Undo Meanwhile, Apple has also teased a similar feature with iOS 26. Coming later this year, call screening feature on iPhones is likely to work in tandem with Live Voicemail. The feature will enable users to screen a call as their device rings, allowing them to decide whether they want to answer a call or reject it. Google Pixel 9 Pro Fold After 1 Year: Is It STILL My Daily Driver? (Long-Term Review)
India.com
an hour ago
- India.com
Best Smartwatches for Health and Everyday Productivity under 1800
A smartwatch does more than just tell time. It tracks your steps, monitors your heart rate, reminds you to move, and helps manage calls and notifications. From stylish designs to health features, these gadgets have become essential for those who want to balance fitness and productivity. Whether you're an athlete or just looking to stay active and organized, Amazon offers a wide variety of smartwatches that blend technology, style, and daily convenience. Noise Twist Go Smartwatch Image Source: Order Now With a sleek round dial and polished metal build, the Noise Twist Go brings classic watch style into the smart era. Its health suite and Bluetooth calling features make it a versatile daily accessory. Key Features: 1.39" bright display with smooth touch response and 100+ customizable watch faces Bluetooth calling with quick access to the dial pad, call history, and contacts Tracks 100+ sports modes, heart rate, SpO2, sleep, and step count with reliable accuracy IP68 rating offers protection from sweat, splashes, and brief submersion Metal finish may feel slightly weighty on slim wrists over long durations Boult Trail Pro Smartwatch Image Source: Order Now Bold and ultra-modern, the Boult Trail Pro features a stunning 3D curved AMOLED screen and vivid 600 nits brightness. Designed for fitness enthusiasts, it supports AI voice commands and has over 250 watch faces. Key Features: 2.01" AMOLED curved display with excellent outdoor visibility and smooth interface response 250+ watch faces and 120+ sports modes to fit every mood and activity Bluetooth 5.3 for fast pairing, clear calling, and seamless audio quality IP68 dust and water resistance with SpO2, heart rate, and sleep monitoring Large size and bold screen may not suit users who prefer more subtle designs Hammer Ace 3.0 Smartwatch Image Source: Order Now With the largest 1.85" display in this segment, the Hammer Ace 3.0 impresses with its premium build and dual-mode Bluetooth calling. It's a solid choice for those seeking both style and utility. Key Features: 1.85" IPS display with a tough metallic case and skin-friendly silicone strap Dual-mode Bluetooth allows calling and music control without interrupting activity tracking Health tracking includes heart rate, SpO2, steps, and basic sleep insights Minimal UI lag with a straightforward layout that's beginner-friendly Watch faces may have limited dynamic customization options compared to others Pebble Hive Smartwatch Image Source: Order Now The Pebble Hive combines style and function with its octa-display and world clock features. It stands out with built-in games, a health suite, and multi-sport tracking to make daily fitness enjoyable. Key Features: 1.39" sharp octa display with intuitive touch and customizable faces for different styles Bluetooth calling, world clock, and games offer practical entertainment on your wrist Sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and multi-sport modes encourage active habits Multiple UI themes allow for fun look changes without switching the strap Lacks an AMOLED screen, so colors may not look as vibrant as others Smartwatches help you stay connected, track your health, and meet your goals without needing to check your phone constantly. With features like sleep tracking, workout modes, and customizable watch faces, they fit smoothly into any lifestyle. Amazon's collection includes everything from budget-friendly options to high-end models from leading brands. Explore their range and find a smartwatch that keeps you motivated, stylish, and one step ahead every day. Disclaimer: At IDPL, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. It should not be construed as an endorsement to buy. IDPL may make a very small commission from its sale if one chooses to buy the product from any of the links in this article.
