Google Reveals Android 16 Design: More Customization, Livelier Animations
The company continues to evolve Material You — in Android 16, the concept of the signature design is named Material 3 Expressive. System animations have become smoother: basic gestures now have a fluid and springy effect.
Dynamic themes, matched by wallpapers, now cover all system applications, not just the keyboard and notification shade. The quick access panel is now customizable — icons can be arranged personally, similar to iOS 18.
“Live” notifications have appeared, reminiscent of the “dynamic island” in the iPhone: they display on the left side of the status bar and on the lock screen when Always-On Display is activated.
Android 16 will first appear on Pixel smartphones by the end of 2025. All Google Pixel models, starting from the sixth generation, will receive support.