Google is set to introduce a refreshed version of its Android design language during the upcoming Google I/O developer conference, as indicated by a recently posted event schedule and an inadvertent blog post. This session, intriguingly titled, suggests a transformative shift from the current “Material 3” to the newly branded “Material Design 3 Expressive.” The leaked blog post reveals that the forthcoming design will prioritize crafting interfaces that resonate emotionally with users.
Impact on App Development
Such design system updates hold significant implications for app developers, shaping how they construct their applications and tailor user experiences. This evolution will undoubtedly influence the overall ambiance of interacting with Android devices.
While specifics regarding the implementation of Material 3 Expressive remain sparse, the blog post hints at some overarching themes. The new design system is expected to embrace a “bold use of shape and color,” aimed at fostering delightful user experiences.
Since its inception in 2014, Material Design has served as Google’s open-source framework for crafting user interfaces in Android applications, encompassing visual, motion, and interaction design. The last major update, unveiled in May 2021, introduced “Material You” (or Material 3), which allowed users to personalize their Android experience by adapting the interface to match their wallpaper’s color scheme.
Material 3 Expressive may not signify a complete overhaul but rather an evolution of the Material You language.
The leaked blog post delves into the research underpinning this update, highlighting a preference among users for more expressive designs that enhance usability. Google asserts that such designs draw attention to crucial elements and user actions, resulting in “significant gains in performance.” Notably, this approach also aims to simplify app usage for older adults, effectively creating a more inclusive environment for users of all ages.
Despite the emphasis on expressive design, Google acknowledges that it is not a universal remedy. Developers will still need to adhere to established design patterns and standards when customizing their app interfaces.
The blog post, initially discovered by 9to5Google and subsequently archived by the Wayback Machine, was swiftly removed by Google. Nevertheless, the I/O session titled “Build next-level UX with Material 3 Expressive” indicates that the company is ready to unveil the updated design system later this month during its developer conference.
According to the session description, attendees will gain insights into employing “new emotional design patterns” to enhance engagement, usability, and overall appeal of their products. Additionally, Google plans to provide files and alpha code, enabling developers to experiment with the upcoming changes prior to a public release.
