Google reveals new design for Android and Wear OS operating systems

Android update

Ahead of Google I/O 2025, which is scheduled to start this week, Google has showcased its latest design update, Material 3 Expressive. It is set to debut alongside Android 16 and Wear OS 6 later this year. Material 3 Expressive is Google’s open-source design system that outlines how to create user interfaces for Android applications, covering areas such as visual, motion, and interaction design.

Android 16 Material 3 Expressive: Key changes

This new UI design from Google introduces a more dynamic user experience with vibrant animations, playful colour schemes, and enhanced typography. Starting with Android 16 visual changes, we get a new feature, Live Updates, which provides real-time progress information from select delivery or transport apps. The live updates will be prominently shown on the lock screen and notification shade, making it easier to monitor deliveries or transport without opening the particular application.

Moreover, Material 3 Expressive also brings more consistent feedback across the system. Whether a user dismisses recent apps or adjusts the volume slider, the visual and tangible responses are now integrated into various system elements for a more seamless experience. Additionally, users can now pin more customised actions, such as Flashlight or Do Not Disturb, directly in a compact view for quicker access.

Wear OS 6 Material 3 Expressive: Key changes

With Wear OS 6, Google is introducing unified visual theme watch faces, which can be seen through the entire system interface, offering a more cohesive and visually harmonious experience. Further, new glanceable buttons, according to the screen’s shape, will make interactions more accessible.

The other UI elements, such as the pin pad and media controls, now incorporate responsive motion with smoother transitions. Google also promises that Wear OS 6 will provide up to 10% more battery life due to further system optimisation.