As Google prepares to release Android 15 to the public soon, attention is now shifting towards Android 16, expected to launch by the end of next year. Android Authority has uncovered exciting details about this upcoming update from the Android 15 QPR1 beta.
Within the beta, it was discovered that Google is planning a “complete redesign” for Android’s Notifications and Quick Settings panels. The current design, rooted in Android 12’s Material You design language, offers a cohesive look across the initial four Quick Setting tiles and the entire notifications panel.
In the Android 15 QPR1 beta, Android Authority found a method to activate the new version of the Notifications and Quick Settings panels, signaling a potential feature for the Android 16 release. This dual-panel design aligns with the preferences of users, as seen in offerings like Xiaomi’s HyperOS. Rumors suggest that Samsung and Oppo may also adopt a similar approach in their future software updates.
Testing the dual design, Android Authority noted that pulling down the status bar once brings down a smaller Notifications panel. Quick Settings tiles are not visible in this dropdown, but users can still access the app underneath the panel. To access the Quick Settings panel, one now needs to pull down the status bar with two fingers, a departure from the traditional method.
The change might be seen as controversial as it requires more effort to access Quick Settings tiles. Once in the Quick Settings panel in Android 16, users can swipe left or right to view all available tiles.
While Google does not guarantee the implementation of these changes in a future Android 16 release, feedback from partners suggests a growing demand for separate settings and notifications panels. Considering this trend, Google may opt to incorporate similar changes to enhance user experience.