Google recently introduced Material 3 Expressive, a new design language for Android 16 and Wear OS 6 devices. This updated design brings more personalization options, improved animations, colors, and enhanced fluidity to the user interface. With Material 3 Expressive, Android and Wear OS devices are set to undergo a significant visual transformation.
Android users can expect new system animations that aim to provide a more natural and responsive feel. Haptic feedback will accompany various interactions such as removing notifications, switching between apps, and adjusting volume settings. Bold colors, large typography elements, and revamped quick settings toggles are some of the prominent changes in the updated dynamic color themes.
Android 16 will feature a redesigned quick settings panel with the ability for users to resize and rearrange toggles. Additionally, a background blur effect will be added to the quick settings and notification shade for a more visually appealing experience.
Quick settings on Android 16
Live Updates, Google's version of Live Activities, will provide dynamic notifications for activities like navigation, ride-hailing, and food delivery directly on the homescreen and notification shade. These updates will also be compatible with the phone's Always-on Display (AOD).
Android 16's Live Updates
Material 3 Expressive will first be available to Android 16 beta users through a future update, with more details to be unveiled at Google's upcoming I/O conference.
Wear OS 6 will also receive the Material 3 Expressive design treatment, focusing on optimizing the UI for round displays and enhancing usability. System-wide color theming, improved animations, and a claimed 10% increase in battery life through performance enhancements are some of the key features. The Gemini AI Assistant will also be introduced to Wear OS 6 devices.
The Material 3 Expressive look for Wear OS is scheduled for a release later this year alongside Wear OS 6.
