Android 16 Gets a Makeover: Material Expressive UI Design
Google has started rolling out a new beta update for Android 16, bringing the fresh Material Expressive UI design to select Pixel devices. The update is part of the Android 16 QPR1 (Quarterly Platform Release) beta, which was announced during the recent Android Show event. If you are part of the Android 16 beta program, you may now see the new design on your eligible device.
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What is Material Expressive Design?
Material Expressive is the next evolution of Google’s Material You design language. It adds smoother animations, vibrant color tones, and an overall more dynamic and personalized feel to Android’s user interface. With Android 16, Google aims to make the UI more intuitive and visually fluid, enhancing the overall user experience.
Users will notice rounded icons, refreshed font styles, and a new look for the Settings menu. The interface feels more modern and flexible, and Google has also focused on improving accessibility with clearer visual cues.
How to Install Android 16 QPR1 Beta Update
If you’re part of the beta program and have an eligible Pixel phone, here’s how you can install the new update:
- Open Settings
- Scroll down and tap on System
- Tap on Software updates
- If the update is available, you will see Android 16 QPR1 Beta listed
- Tap on Download and Install
- Once installed, reboot your phone
After restarting, your phone will be running the latest beta version of Android 16 with the new Material Expressive design.
List of Supported Pixel Phones
This beta update is only available for select Pixel devices. Here’s the full list:
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9 Pro Fold
- Pixel 9a
If you own one of these devices and are enrolled in the beta program, you should be able to access the update.
What’s New in Android 16 Beta with Material Expressive?
Google has introduced a number of changes with this version. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Smoother Animations
The overall feel of the UI is more fluid. From opening apps to switching screens and accessing menus, the animations are now more responsive and seamless.
2. Live Activities (Real-Time Updates)
Just like iOS Live Activities, Android 16 brings real-time updates for services like food delivery and , directly on your lock screen. You won’t need to unlock your phone or open an app to check your order status.
3. Refreshed Icons and Fonts
The visual elements across the system now feature more curved icons, modern fonts, and a cleaner layout, giving your phone a refreshed and premium feel.
4. Improved Settings Menu
The Settings app has received a visual overhaul with new color tones for each section. It not only looks better but is also easier to navigate.
5. New Wallpaper and Personalization Options
Android 16 allows users to customize the home and lock screens more easily. A redesigned wallpaper picker and style menu help users change fonts, colors, icons, and layout in just a few taps.
6. Notification UI Changes
There’s also an option to modify how notifications appear on your lock screen. This allows users to choose between compact views, expanded details, or even hide sensitive content.
Our Experience on Pixel 9 Pro
We tried the Android 16 beta on the Pixel 9 Pro, and the results are promising. The UI feels snappier, and the new design elements make daily use more engaging. The real-time updates on the lock screen are especially useful for those who frequently use ride-hailing or food delivery apps.x
When Will the Public Android 16 Update Be Released?
According to Google, Android 16 is expected to roll out publicly by June 2025. The current beta versions will help identify bugs and improve performance before the final release. If everything stays on track, Android 16 will likely debut on the new Pixel devices launching later this year.
Final Thoughts
The Android 16 Material Expressive design is a bold new step that makes Android feel more lively and personal. While it’s still in beta, users who are part of the program can already start exploring what’s new. The interface updates, new features like real-time updates, and better customization tools make Android 16 a promising upgrade for Pixel users.
Stay tuned for more updates as Google moves closer to the official launch in the coming weeks.
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