Android 16 set for early launch with major design overhaul and performance boost

Android fans have something big to look forward to this year as Google gears up to launch Android 16 earlier than expected.

The first public beta is expected to land by mid-May, ahead of the annual Google I/O developer conference, with a full rollout projected for later this year.

Early developer builds of Android 16 have been making the rounds, and while the core update promises improved performance, tighter privacy controls, and smoother UI experiences, the most talked-about shift is a major visual overhaul that is coming soon, but not quite yet.

According to the Android Authority, many early testers were disappointed by the relatively minimal UI changes in the current Beta 4 release, which is the final beta version before Android 16 goes stable.

“For now, the operating system looks and feels a lot like Android 15. However, that’s likely to change soon as Google has confirmed it will unveil a more expressive version of its Material Design theme, called Material 3 Expressive, at this year’s developer conference,” said one developer.

Though these changes are not active in Beta 4 by default, code sleuths have uncovered early versions of this new design language buried within the update.

Among the key visual changes coming soon are enhanced blur effects, particularly in the Quick Settings and Notifications panel.

Instead of a solid background, users will see a blurred version of the home screen or app beneath, giving a more modern and dynamic aesthetic.

In light mode, the background takes on a frosted glass look, while in dark mode, transparency and softer grey tones dominate.

For Kenyan users with mid-range phones like Tecno, Infinix and Samsung A-series, the design changes will not just look nice, they will also help the phone run better.

The update is also working behind the scenes to optimise battery performance, memory usage, and background app behaviour, helping keep devices smooth even with older hardware.

Other interface changes spotted include redesigned status bar icons, with more segmented indicators for Wi-Fi and mobile data, bolder aeroplane and 5G symbols, and a colour-coded battery icon.

The clock font is now larger and easier to read, especially helpful for quick glances during Nairobi’s daily hustle.

Google is also planning a revamp of the lock screen, with a cleaner, more compact layout.

The clock, date and weather info are reorganised for better readability, and a new compact notification shelf will allow users to keep their screens neat without losing functionality.

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Android Authority also reports that the PIN entry has been polished up with dynamic theming and a slightly bolder layout.

More settings?

In the Settings app, Google is introducing a visually richer experience, complete with colourful icons, card-style menus, and updated toggles that reflect the Material 3 Expressive style.

These updates aim to make Android not just functional, but visually coherent and intuitive.

Even the volume and media output controls are getting a facelift. Gone are the chunky pill sliders from Android 15, and in their place are sleeker, thinner bars that better align with Google's new design principles.

The media output switcher has also been cleaned up, offering a more accessible layout for switching between Bluetooth speakers, headphones, or other connected devices.

Beyond visuals, Android 16 will continue pushing its Privacy Sandbox initiative, giving users more control over how apps access personal data.

Google’s new Health Connect app, also part of the update, allows secure sharing of health and fitness data between apps, something that could benefit Kenyans using smartwatches, fitness trackers, or health apps like m-Tiba.

And for users who like a touch of personality, Google is adding new home screen icon shapes, including quirky options like “four-sided cookie,” “arch,” and “complex clover.” While this might not revolutionise Android, it adds a layer of playful customisation, especially for younger users and digital enthusiasts.

It is worth noting that most of these changes are not yet live in Beta 4.

However, they are expected to arrive in full or in part through future quarterly updates or be revealed in detail at the Google I/O 2025 conference.

This means that while the first release of Android 16 may feel familiar, a visual refresh is cooking.