Google confirmed that it will release Android 16 in June 2025, though the exact date remains under wraps. However, ahead of the big update’s release, the company has now revealed its Material 3 Expressive design language coming to Android 16. As Samsung develops its next-generation custom skin, One UI 8, on top of Android 16, Galaxy users can expect a similar design language on some of its apps or within the overall UI.
What’s new in Material 3 Expressive?
Google aims to give Android users control over how their phone looks and works. Now, Material 3 Expressive will offer users more customization options so you can truly express yourself. This new design language adds smoother animations and more natural responses to your actions. For example, when you swipe away a notification, nearby ones gently respond to your drag, giving a haptic feedback to make it feel more real.
The company follows a similar approach across the system. Swiping away apps, adjusting the volume, or pulling down the notification shade all come with smoother animations. On top of that, the background now gently blurs when you open the shade. It makes the motion feel lightweight and helps you to stay aware of the apps you’re using in the background. Interestingly, Samsung has also focused on a blur effect in the background across its several system apps in One UI 8, suggesting the adoption of Material 3 Expressive design’s blur effect.
You can also customize your phone as per your style and preference with dynamic color themes, responsive components, and enhanced typography. These design updates are also coming across Google apps like Google Photos, Fitbit, and Gmail.
The company says the new design not only offers modern aesthetics but also improves functionality. Quick Settings now allows you to include more of your favorite tools, like Flashlight and Do Not Disturb. It has introduced a new feature called Live Updates that lets you easily track things in real time. For example, if you order from Uber Eats, you will see your delivery progress on the lock screen, AOD screen, status bar, and more.
These are just some of the new designs and improvements as part of Material 3 Expressive. Google says these updates will arrive first on Pixel devices later this year with Android 16. Meanwhile, during The Android Show: I/O Edition, Google recently confirmed that One UI 8 will launch later this summer. So, Galaxy users won’t have to wait longer to experience Material 3 Expressive design on at least Google’s first-party apps.
