Google I/O 2025 has concluded, and while the spotlight was largely on Gemini, a significant development for Android enthusiasts emerged from the sidelines: the launch of the Android 16 QPR1 Beta. This update introduces the much-anticipated Material 3 Expressive design language, which promises to enhance user experience with its bold and playful aesthetics. Below, we delve into the highlights of this update and how you can participate in the beta testing.
The Android 16 QPR1 marks the first Quarterly Platform Release following the stable Android 16 Beta program. Although it boasts greater stability than its predecessors, it remains primarily targeted at developers and testers, as some bugs and issues persist. This release also serves as a precursor to the upcoming Pixel Feature Drop, expected next month.
With the introduction of Material 3 Expressive design, or M3E, users can anticipate a fresh visual experience. This new design language will also extend its influence to Wear OS 6, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of wearables.
What’s New in Android 16 QPR1: Material 3 Expressive Design
Upon installing the Android 16 QPR1 Beta on my Pixel 9 Pro XL, the effects of M3 Expressive were immediately apparent. The user interface underwent noticeable transformations, particularly in areas such as quick settings and wallpaper. Some features, including custom icons on the Pixel Launcher, are yet to be activated.
One of the most significant changes on the home screen is the increased space allocated for widgets and apps, thanks to a reduced “At a Glance” widget that previously occupied the upper section. Additionally, the status bar now showcases new system icons for battery, cellular, and Wi-Fi, while the system settings feature more themed glyph icons across various sections.
The quick settings panel has also received a vibrant makeover, featuring a more colorful and bubbly design for widgets and shortcuts, complemented by new animations described by Google as “springy.” Users will appreciate the expanded customization options for positioning and resizing icons and toggles, enabling a more personalized layout with 1×1 icons.
For those who enjoy customizing their home and lock screens, Android 16 offers enhanced controls and effects for personal photos. Users can now overlay colors with shapes and incorporate AI-powered weather effects. However, the Cinematic effect, while promising, remains non-operational in the current beta version.
Material 3 Expressive Coming to More Apps and Devices
Looking ahead, Google plans to extend the M3 Expressive design to its suite of applications, including Google Photos and Keep. The onus now lies with device manufacturers, particularly those with customized Android versions like Samsung’s One UI, to integrate this new design language. For brands that offer stock or near-stock Android experiences, many of these enhancements should seamlessly transition into their offerings.
For those eager to experience the new features, the Android 16 QPR1 Beta is available through the beta program for a range of Pixel devices:
- Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro, and Pixel 6a
- Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro, and Pixel 7a
- Pixel 8, Pixel 8 Pro, and Pixel 8a
- Pixel 9, Pixel 9 Pro, Pixel 9 Pro XL, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, and Pixel 9a
- Pixel Fold
- Pixel Tablet
What are your thoughts on the new Material 3 Expressive design in Android? Should more brands adopt this fresh look? We invite you to share your opinions.
