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As we approach the anticipated public release of Android 16, which is expected in late May or early June, the excitement is starting to build. Following several months of Developer Previews and beta versions, users are keen to see what new features will enhance their device experience.
While early updates primarily showcased a variety of technical improvements aimed at developers, many users have felt that the new version has lacked standout features geared towards everyday use. Enhancements in areas such as the photo picker, Live Updates notifications, and increased app compatibility for tablets and foldables have been noted, but the overall impression was that Android 16 was shaping up to be less than exhilarating.
However, a recent development—the release of Android 16 Beta 3 on March 13—has ignited hope among users. This latest beta introduces several small but noteworthy features that have generated increased interest and enthusiasm for the upcoming OS.
Which Android 16 feature are you most excited about?
121 votes
New Quick Settings/notification panel design
58%
Customizable app icons
17%
Lock screen widgets
22%
Other (let us know in the comments)
3%
Significant Improvements to Quick Settings
The most striking change is the redesigned Quick Settings menu. Historically, Quick Settings in standard Android have maintained a consistent look since Android 13, but Android 16 plans to introduce a split layout. Notifications will now appear when swiping down from the top left corner, while Quick Settings will be accessed from the top right.
While the split design might be subjective, the new layout offers a vertically scrolling Quick Settings page that maximizes screen use. Currently, Android 15 displays eight toggles at a time, but the upcoming update promises to showcase at least 16 or more, a substantial increase in accessibility.
Additionally, Google is experimenting with diverse toggle sizes, including smaller square options that occupy less space than traditional rectangular buttons. This shift not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the interface but also allows for greater functionality on the screen.
A welcome aspect of this redesign is the anticipated user customization options for Quick Settings. Unlike other Android skins, which have offered robust customization features, stock Android has been limited. The potential to tailor the Quick Settings experience is an exciting prospect for users who value personalization and control.
It’s important to note that while this updated Quick Settings and notification panel is impressive, it may not be ready for the initial stable release of Android 16 but should make its debut in a subsequent update.
Enhanced Customization for App Icons
The customization options for home screens in Android 15 have been fairly basic. Users had limited choices, primarily regarding app grid setups and accent colors. Android 16 intends to introduce an upgrade by allowing users to change the shape of app icons.
Although the feature was not accessible in the recent beta, it has been activated through other means, showing six distinct shapes for app icons. Options include traditional shapes like circles and more unique designs such as a “four-sided cookie” and “complex clover.” Whether one finds these designs appealing is subjective, but the introduction of more customization options is a significant step forward for Google’s Pixel Launcher.
This shift may be a precursor to further enhancements, such as support for custom icon packs or the ability to personalize individual icons. As someone who often favors the customization available in third-party systems, seeing Android 16 embrace this feature is encouraging.
As with other updates, the rollout timeline for this app icon feature remains uncertain, but many are hopeful it will arrive with the first public release.
Lock Screen Widgets Coming Back
Another anticipated feature is the return of lock screen widgets. Although not officially part of Android 16 Beta 3, Google has confirmed that this functionality will be incorporated in Android 16 QPR1, slated for a September release. Previously, lock screen widgets were exclusive to tablets, but their transition to smartphones marks a significant enhancement.
As an individual who uses both an iPhone and an Android device, I have found lock screen widgets on iOS 16 to be exceptionally beneficial. They allow for quick access to essential items such as shopping lists, calendar events, and shortcuts to apps like ChatGPT, all displayed conveniently on the lock screen.
Realistically, it can be challenging to find enough space for all desired widgets on the home screen. Utilizing the lock screen effectively for this purpose is a pragmatic solution, offering an easy glance at important reminders or cherished memories through Google Photos. While it may seem trivial for Google to revive a feature from the past, many users will undoubtedly welcome the return of lock screen widgets.
Anticipating a Solid Update with Android 16
Although Android 16 may not be the most groundbreaking update we have seen, it is beginning to take shape and provide glimpses of its potential. Much of the work is behind-the-scenes, but with new features such as the redesigned Quick Settings, customizable app icons, and the return of lock screen widgets, the update holds promise for both new and existing users.
More detailed information and demonstrations of these features are expected to be showcased during Google I/O in May, and additional functionalities may also be unveiled at that time. Although it may not offer the dramatic overhaul seen with Android 13, the anticipated changes in Android 16 now appear to offer an engaging update for users to look forward to.
Source
www.androidauthority.com