Oops! Google leaks Android’s bold new makeover — here’s what’s changing

Someone at Google has probably had a bad day. A recent slip-up revealed the company’s upcoming redesign for Android — and the internet wasted no time jumping on it. Google accidentally pushed a button to undo the changes, but images of the new look began appearing online. We got an early glimpse at Android 16.

What’s all the fuss about? This isn’t a simple new wallpaper, or even a couple of tweaks to the icons. Google calls it Material 3 Expressive and it is shaping up to become one of Android’s biggest visual changes for years. Think bigger buttons, bolder colours, and a layout that actually seems to be built for everyday use — not just design nerds.

What’s new in Android 16’s design — and why it matters

You know that feeling when you’re trying to send an email, but the ‘send’ button is so tiny or buried you end up hitting the wrong thing? Google wants to eliminate this kind of awkwardness. With Material 3 Expressive, the idea is to make the important stuff pop — literally.

Here’s what’s coming:

• Bigger buttons for common actions like send, confirm or play — you’ll spot them faster and tap them easier.
• The send button in apps such as Gmail will now be located directly above the keyboard where your thumb is already.
• Buttons to attach files or take photos? The buttons are grouped together into a handy little toolbar, so you don’t have to search all over the screen.
• New colour themes — goodbye bland greys, hello violet and coral tones that feel a bit warmer and more alive.
• Better contrast and cleaner text, especially for older readers who don’t want to squint.
• Oh, and they’re redesigning the app drawer too — it’s all part of the same effort to make Android feel easier to navigate and, dare we say it, fun again.

Google is saying “We understand” with this redesign. The phone should be easy to use and not feel like a puzzle.

Android 16: A redesign that improves the everyday use of your phone

It’s worth noting that Google did not just create this design in a lab. Over 18,000 people were interviewed to find out what worked and what didn’t. The leaked images show that they took this feedback very seriously.

The update has been designed to make things easier to use. No need to memorise the location of buttons. You won’t need to navigate menus. You won’t be fumbling through menus.

The vibe? Less ‘cold tech’ and more “this makes sense”. It’s time.

And let’s be honest — Android has always been powerful, but it hasn’t always been pretty. This update gives it personality.

Android 16 and its new design is coming soon

If you have a Google Pixel you could be among the first. Android 16 is expected to be the full release, which according to rumours and now this leak should arrive late May or early in June 2025.

The rest of us will probably get it not long after — depending on your device and how fast your phone manufacturer is at rolling out updates.

This is definitely one to keep an eye on. This update could make your life easier, whether you are glued to your smartphone or only use it occasionally to send a WhatsApp.

What if you like using your phone more after a design upgrade? It’s fine.

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