Google is testing a fresh look for its media output switcher in Android 16 Beta 4. The company has now moved the “connect a device” button higher and redesigned the volume slider. The updated design also closely aligns with Google’s Material Design 3 guidelines, though some may not like the new look.
Google is testing a redesigned media output switcher in Android 16 Beta 4
Last week, Google rolled out its Android 16 Beta 4 to eligible Pixel devices. As the days go by, users have been discovering new changes and features in the latest build. Now, folks over at Android Authority have spotted a fresh design for the media output switcher.
For the uninitiated, the media output switcher is the panel that shows up when you tap the chip in the top right corner of any media playback notification. Google introduced this panel with Android 11 in 2020. So far, the company has not made any major changes, though Android 14 added a “Speakers & Displays” heading.
One of the notable changes is the placement of the “connect a device” button. Previously, this button was located at the bottom of the list, but in the new design, it has been moved to the top of the panel, just below the media information. This is particularly useful when you want to quickly connect a new device to your phone.
Another change is to the volume slider. Previously, the slider was thick and pill-shaped with the device name inside it. Now, the slider is much thinner and continuous, making it sleeker. The device name has also been moved above the slider, offering a cleaner look. Interestingly, the publication says that the new volume slider design aligns better with Google’s Material Design 3 guidelines.
On top of that, the slider now includes an appropriate icon that better represents the connected device. For example, when earbuds are connected, the icon will show a pair of earbuds. This helps you understand which device you are controlling the volume for.
Downgrade in the redesign
Speaking of the last noticeable changes, Google has removed the pill-shaped box around the listed devices under the “Speakers & Displays” heading. Removing the pill-shaped boxes makes the interface more streamlined, but it looks like a step back in terms of visual appeal.
Since Android 16 beta 4 is the final beta of the next big update, there’s little chance we could see further changes within the media output switcher in the final version of Android 16. However, it’s good to see that Google has redesigned the media output switcher after a long time, aiming to give a fresh look.
