Google has been rolling out various beta versions of Android 16 for some time, but many features are still kept under wraps. We can confirm that the company is set to unveil new design updates at this month’s I/O event, with some of these enhancements already visible in the latest beta version.
Android Authority has unlocked hidden design elements in Beta 4, revealing numerous subtle and not-so-subtle alterations to the user interface. Since these features remain inactive in the final beta, they might not appear in the first stable release of Android 16. Instead, Google could enable them in a future quarterly update. Hopefully, more details will emerge during the developer conference.
According to Android Authority, the design updates feature changes in fonts, icons, and new blur effects. The Settings app and Quick Settings panel are receiving significant revamps for a more vibrant feel, and the lock screen design has been compacted for a sleeker look.
One of the exciting features found in the beta is the new options for app icon shapes. Users will have the choice between the standard circular shape and several more unique options including “square,” “four-sided cookie,” “seven-sided cookie,” “arch,” and “complex clover.” The selected shape will be displayed on both the home screen and app drawer. The names might seem quirky, but they add an interesting twist to the UI experience.
As we await the arrival of the new design theme from Google, it’s uncertain how close these hidden features are to the final product. Moreover, there may be additional updates that didn’t make it into this beta version. With just 20 days left until Google I/O 2025, we’ll likely learn more in a few weeks.
