Google launched a brand new Android 16 beta earlier this week, revealing extra new options and modifications within the works. Noteworthy amongst these are customized icon shapes for the app launcher, a revamped notification panel, and extra. To date, Android 16’s early releases have lacked important new user-facing options.
Nevertheless, behind the scenes, a number of substantial updates are in growth, evident from Android 16 Beta 3. One of many notable options in Beta 3 is the redesigned notification panel. This new design prominently reveals the time on the prime, matching the clock type of your lock display screen.
Moreover, it provides a devoted bar for “Clear all,” notification settings, and notification historical past buttons. This design is a substantial departure from the present one, that includes a completely opaque background behind the notifications. With the design replace, new swipe gestures have additionally been launched.
Google reveals notification panel redesign
A swipe from the highest left now reveals notifications, whereas a swipe from the highest proper shows Fast Settings. Though there is no such thing as a gesture to modify between the 2, buttons on the prime act as shortcuts.
As well as, work is underway to carry again customized icon shapes for apps on the homescreen. This characteristic, beforehand supported however eliminated in Android 12, seems to be returning. Comparable customization may prolong to the lock display screen, with choices for climate results and different shapes, drawing inspiration from OxygenOS/ColorOS and Samsung’s One UI 7.
None of those options are user-facing in Android 16 Beta 3, and it stays unclear when, or if, they are going to be publicly obtainable. Google plans to launch the ultimate model of Android 16 round Could or June, with a big subsequent replace anticipated later in 2025. What do you consider the modifications Google is engaged on?
For extra on Android 16, comply with Ben Schoon, a Senior Editor for 9to5Google, on Twitter @NexusBen.
Photograph by; Angela Compagnone on Unsplash
