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Android 16 Introduces Organized Quick Settings Tiles
In an exciting development for Android users, the latest beta release of Android hints at an upcoming feature that may reshape how Quick Settings tiles are organized. The new system promises to categorize tiles, making it significantly easier for users to locate and manage their settings quickly.
Recently, Google launched a new Android beta update, which appears less substantial than last month’s release that introduced notable features such as lock screen widgets and enhanced desktop windowing capabilities. However, the new beta reveals potential insights into forthcoming changes in future versions, particularly with the anticipated Android 16.
Categories for Quick Settings Tiles
Investigations into the updated SystemUI app within the new Android 15 beta unveiled strings of code suggesting that Quick Settings tiles could be sorted into various categories. These categories might include Accessibility, Connectivity, Display, Privacy, Utilities, and a few others, offering a much more organized interface for users.
The expected categories are as follows:
- Accessibility
- Connectivity
- Display
- Privacy
- Provided by apps
- Unknown
- Utilities
Currently, when users edit the Quick Settings panel in the latest Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 update, they are confronted with an unstructured display featuring a two-column list of tiles. This includes both native system tiles and those provided by third-party applications, making it cumbersome for users to find specific features without extensive scrolling.
A More Streamlined Experience
As part of a broader initiative to refine both notifications and the Quick Settings interface in Android 16, Google aims to revamp the Quick Settings editor significantly. Upon updating to the Android 15 QPR1 Beta 3 and engaging with the new Quick Settings user interface, it became evident that tiles are being organized into specific categories, ensuring a more intuitive experience.
In watching the new layout, tiles associated with connectivity such as Data Saver and Hotspot are neatly grouped together. Similarly, accessibility options like Color Correction and Hearing Devices are placed in their respective category, enhancing both accessibility and usability.
It is worth noting that some categories may not display until they contain applicable tiles. For example, the Utilities category was absent in my interface since I had already added compatible tiles. Meanwhile, the purpose of the Unknown category remains unclear, as all tiles should typically be categorized under either system defaults or third-party contributions.
Looking Ahead: Anticipated Launch and Impact
As for when users might expect to see this feature officially launched, indications suggest that the Quick Settings tile categories are unlikely to appear in the current Android 15 environment. Given the size of this overhaul, it seems more fitting that such a substantial update would be reserved for Android 16.
Regardless of whether this enhancement arrives with Android 15 updates or launches in Android 16, it represents a significant improvement for users. A more organized Quick Settings editor is a long-awaited development that promises to streamline the user experience, allowing for easier access to essential tools and settings.
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Source
www.androidauthority.com