Android 16 Might Redesign Your Phone Significantly

With Google gearing up for the launch of Android 15, the excitement is already shifting towards Android 16, which is anticipated to debut towards the end of next year. Recent explorations by Android Authority have unveiled some compelling insights from the Android 15 QPR1 beta.

In this beta version, the team at Android Authority found indications of a “complete redesign” for the Notifications and Quick Settings panels. This update marks a significant shift from the current interface, which has remained largely unchanged since Android 12, where Google first introduced its Material You design philosophy. This approach has provided a cohesive look and feel, particularly for the initial set of four Quick Setting tiles and the notification interface.

The findings in the Android 15 QPR1 beta show a potential new way to activate the redesigned Notifications and Quick Settings panels, thought to be part of the Android 16 rollout. This dual-interface approach seems aligned with trends adopted by other manufacturers.

According to Xiaomi, users generally favor having distinct panels for settings and notifications, which is why their HyperOS platform reflects this design philosophy. Subsequently, other brands like Samsung and Oppo are reportedly contemplating similar adaptations for their upcoming One UI and ColorOS updates. Android Authority notes that this trend towards change is in response to “online pushback” from consumers regarding the existing interface.

During tests of the new dual panel design, Android Authority explained that a single swipe down from the status bar brings up the Notifications panel, which now occupies only about a quarter of the display instead of the complete screen. Though Quick Settings tiles are not visible in this new dropdown, users can still see the underlying app.

Additionally, accessing the Quick Settings panel will now require pulling down the status bar with two fingers rather than the previous method. Android Authority remarks, “This is likely to be one of the most debated changes, as it demands more effort to access the Quick Settings tiles.” After pulling down on the Quick Settings panel in Android 16, users will be able to swipe left or right to view all the tiles available.

Here’s a sneak peek at what the revamped design may look like:

Although Android Authority emphasizes that these modifications to the Notifications and Quick Settings panels are not guaranteed to appear in a future public release of Android 16, the adaptations made by partners in reaction to user feedback suggest that Google should also take notice of these trends.