Android 16 completely dismisses the way to display the [Videos] settings

The release of the third beta of Android 16 marks an important step towards the stable version expected in June. While no major changes are expected between now and then, Google continues to refine certain important aspects of its OS. Among the most notable developments are the separation of the notifications and quick settings panels, as well as a redesign of the Settings app.

A clearer separation of notifications and quick settings

For several months, Google has been working on a clearer distinction between the notifications and quick settings panels. This will provide more space for each element. With Android 16 Beta 3, several new features have been seen. The first is a better integrated media player that appears at the top of the Quick Settings panel, allowing for quick access without having to open a specific app.

The second is a new way to navigate between panels. Tap the bullets in the top left and right to open notifications or Quick Settings, respectively. Swiping down to the left opens the notifications panel, while swiping right displays Quick Settings. Finally, the Quick Settings shortcuts are now resizable. A choice that is reminiscent of Apple's iOS interface.

Since this is a beta version, Google still has room to improve a few aspects like the light mode and its contrasts that are not always very readable. Navigation gestures could also be adjusted before the release of the stable version, which should be here in June.

Android 16's Settings app also gets a lick of paint

Alongside the changes to the notification and quick settings panels, Google is preparing a major update to the Settings app. Several notable changes have been spotted in Android 16 Beta 3: activation buttons with a new design, separate cards for each option to improve visibility, and clearer submenu indicators that take the form of small arrows. There has also been a repositioning of the headers with page titles appearing at the top of the screen.

Other, more subtle adjustments have also been spotted, such as a back button in a bubble or drop-down menus integrated into larger dots. But the Settings app's homepage doesn't see any major changes compared to previous versions.

As with the notification panel redesign, this new layout is unlikely to make it to the stable version of Android 16. It could be introduced in one of Android 16's quarterly updates, or even delayed to Android 17... Google could also abandon this design along the way if it doesn't meet user expectations.

Opera One - AI-powered web browser

By: Opera

Download for free

Source: Android Authority