Google has officially rolled out the first beta of Android 16, showcasing a fresh aesthetic and refined user interface. Tech enthusiasts have been testing the new features, and popular tech reviewer Marques Brownlee, who has spent days exploring the beta on his Pixel 9 Pro, highlights the most exciting changes.
While the update doesn’t introduce groundbreaking functionalities, it focuses heavily on visual refinements and customizability, building on Google’s Material Design principles. Here’s a breakdown of the top five features and updates in Android 16, as reviewed by Brownlee.
1. Enhanced Quick Settings and Notification Panel
Android’s quick settings and notification interface receive a major visual overhaul. The background is now a glassy, transparent overlay, replacing the solid look of Android 15. Key changes include a redesigned brightness slider, toggles with dynamic shapes that shift between round and boxy when active, and a new customization option. Users can shrink toggles to half-size and rearrange them for a personalized layout.
Brownlee praised the attention to detail, particularly the Bluetooth button’s dual functionality: tapping the main button accesses settings, while the small icon toggles Bluetooth on or off. “This is one of my favorite Android features,” he said, commending its thoughtfulness and usability.
2. Physics-Driven Interactions
Android 16 introduces subtle but noticeable changes in how UI elements respond to user interactions, making them feel more like physical objects. Notifications, for example, now have a slight “unsticking” effect when swiped away, accompanied by haptic feedback.
Brownlee noted this added expressiveness enhances the tactile experience: “It’s completely unnecessary, but it just feels nice.”
3. Lock Screen Customization
Android 16 offers a revamped lock screen customization tool with more intuitive options. Users can adjust clock styles and font thickness, select compact or full notification views, and customize shortcuts. Brownlee highlighted the clean organization of the new interface, making it easier to achieve the perfect lock screen setup.
4. Launcher Updates
The home screen also gets minor but impactful updates. The “At a Glance” widget is now slimmer, freeing space for an additional row of icons. New grid sizes and wallpaper customization options allow users to tailor their phone’s look.
One standout feature is the ability to apply effects to wallpapers, such as adding fog, rain, or snow. Weather effects can even mirror real-time conditions. Another feature, “Cinematic,” uses AI to create subtle 3D motion effects on photos.
5. Improved Recent Apps View
The multitasking menu now includes a dropdown for every app, offering quick access to actions like split-screen mode. The UI also incorporates playful physics, with app windows bouncing slightly when moved. Brownlee applauded these refinements, calling them “good stuff” that enhances usability and fun.
Other Subtle Enhancements
Android 16 introduces several smaller updates that contribute to its polished feel:
- Notification Bar Icons: Redesigned with a horizontal battery indicator featuring numbers inside for readability.
- Volume and Brightness Sliders: Updated to match the new aesthetic with clearer bars.
- Transparent Overlays: Both the app drawer and other UI elements now feature a transparent design.
- Settings App Redesign: Better organization and an updated look improve navigation.
What’s Next for Android 16
While this first beta is primarily focused on visuals, future updates are expected to introduce functional features like “Find Hub,” a centralized tool for tracking devices and contacts, and glanceable ongoing notifications similar to iOS.
Brownlee noted that the beta has been stable, apart from issues with Android Auto, and expressed excitement for what’s to come. “There’s more on the way, and I’m looking forward to it,” he concluded.
With Android 16, Google is doubling down on customization and user experience, delivering a thoughtful upgrade that brings aesthetic delight to the platform.