Changing the entire style of your Pixel in a single gesture could become possible. Google is testing a long-awaited new feature in Android 16. The system could finally integrate real customization packs.
For years, customization has been a strong point of Android. Brands like Samsung offer complete themes on their Galaxy S24 or S25 Ultra, allowing you to change wallpaper, icons, sounds, and colors in one click. Conversely, Pixel users – like the recent Pixel 8, Pixel 9, or Pixel 9a – still have to juggle several settings to customize their phone's appearance. A paradoxical situation, even though these are the smartphones designed by Google to represent the OS as closely as possible to its vision. This could soon change with Android 16. In the first beta version of the update (QPR1 Beta 1), Android Authority spotted signs that Google is working on a new feature called “Pixel Themes.” Lines of code in the “Wallpaper & Style” app hint at a “Themes” button and a companion app called “Pixel Customization Packs.” This button, while invisible by default, was able to be enabled via debugging tools. He then tries to launch a module that does not yet exist in this beta version, but its name clearly suggests the arrival of complete customization packs, grouping together several visual elements.
Android 16 introduces a theme system to change the style of Pixels in a single click
In this test version, the interface of The customization app has already been reworked. There's a slider to adjust the lock screen's clock size, as well as the "Magic Portrait" animated wallpapers. The "Themes" button, while not currently functional, should allow you to apply a complete theme in a single operation: wallpaper, color palette, icons, system sounds, and perhaps even animations. This approach is reminiscent of what Samsung has long offered on its Galaxy range.
It's still unclear how far Google will be able to go. The files mentioned do not specify whether users will be able to create their own themes, or whether they will have to settle for templates provided by the company. It's also unclear whether these packs will be shared between users or downloaded via a dedicated store. Despite this uncertainty, the addition of this feature would represent a significant development for Pixel owners. It meets a long-standing desire: to easily customize your device without multiple manipulations or using third-party apps.
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