Google pushed a significant update to its Android preview program on day one of I/O, signaling that Android 16 is nearing the finish line.
The new release delivers a bolder Material 3 visual language, redesigned controls, and fresh features for Pixels and Pixel Watches enrolled in developer previews.
Material 3 Expressive: louder visuals, smoother motion
Android 16 QPR1 (firmware BP31.250502.008) introduces what Google calls Material 3 Expressive, a stronger visual treatment for the system UI. Expect more saturated colors, smoother animations, and a bigger sense of depth across the interface.
Typography has been dialed up, and key interface elements are larger and more color-distinct to improve clarity and emphasis.
More customization and functional tweaks
The redesign is not purely cosmetic. Parts of the system are now more customizable, including freer placement of quick toggles in the notification shade.
That change aims to let users rearrange the quick settings area with fewer constraints, while visual emphasis on important controls should make common tasks easier to spot and complete.
Live notifications, screen recording, and redesigned Settings
The latest beta also adds a live notifications feature: some notifications now include a progress bar showing the state of an ongoing event, such as a food delivery.
Testers can also try screen recording integrated with Gemini and a colorful redesign of the Settings app that aligns with the new visual language.
Which devices can try it now?
Android 16 QPR1 is available to Google Pixel 6 and newer phones, plus the Pixel Tablet, provided the device is enrolled in the Android 16 Preview program.
Wear OS 6 developer preview arrives for Pixel Watch
Pixel Watch owners can test the new look through the Developer Preview of Wear OS 6. Alongside the visual updates, Google says the preview boosts battery life by roughly 10 percent on a single charge.
