Google is revamping its iconic Android characters with a modern makeover, bringing them to more devices and platforms as part of the upcoming Android update.
Android 16 is Getting a Facelift, and Gemini Is Rolling Onto More Google Platforms
A Fresh New Design Language for Android
Google has teased several new features coming to its mobile operating system ahead of next week’s I/O conference. During the virtual event dubbed The Android Show, the company showcased several updates that aim to make Android more personalized and responsive.
Android is an open-source mobile operating system developed by Google.
First released in 2008, it was initially designed for digital cameras and other consumer electronics.
In 2009, the first commercial device running Android, the HTC Dream, was launched.
Since then, Android has become one of the most widely used smartphone platforms globally, with over 70% market share as of 2022.
Android's popularity stems from its customizability, affordability, and seamless integration with Google services.
Personalization is Key
The last major redesign of Android was four years ago when Material 3 debuted. However, Google says this isn’t ‘Material 4,’ and the new design language is called Material 3 Expressive. This update is the result of 46 studies with over 18,000 participants, who preferred a more expressive language that scores high on attributes like playfulness, energy, creativity, and friendliness.
New Animations and Typography
Android 16 features fresh animations that will feel more responsive, such as swiping notifications away from the notification drawer feeling springy with haptic feedback. Fonts and typography are also more emphasized, giving users more control over the operating system’s look, even in supported apps.
Enhanced Lock Screen Experience
The new design updates extend to Wear OS 6 as well, catering to round smartwatch displays like those on the Pixel Watch 3. Dynamic color theming lets users customize the watch’s operating system to match their outfit, not just the watch face. Google says the animations are fluid while offering more depth, and buttons hug the display to make them more space-efficient and easily tappable.
Security Upgrades
Android 16 includes several security upgrades, such as a more robust lockdown mode for users who feel like they need extra protection from hacks, scams, and threats. The phone will now block specific actions like disabling Google Play Protect, app sideloading, and granting accessibility permissions when interacting with someone outside of their contacts list.
Security refers to the measures taken to protect individuals, organizations, and assets from potential harm.
It encompasses physical security, network security, and cybersecurity.
Physical security involves protecting against theft, vandalism, and violence, while network security focuses on safeguarding data and systems from unauthorized access.
Cybersecurity, a rapidly growing concern, aims to prevent cyber threats such as hacking, phishing, and malware attacks.
Statistics show that in 2020, over 4 billion records were compromised worldwide due to data breaches.
Gemini Takes Over as Google Assistant
Google Assistant is officially going away, replaced by the souped-up Gemini chatbot. Gemini will replace Assistant on more platforms beyond just Android phones, including Wear OS 6, Android Auto, cars with Google Built-in, Google TV, and Android XR.
Gemini is an AI assistant developed by Google that provides accurate and reliable information to users.
It was previously known as Bard and was launched in 2023.
Gemini uses a combination of natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms to understand user queries and provide relevant responses.
The AI assistant has been trained on a vast amount of text data, allowing it to generate human-like answers to complex questions.
According to Google, Gemini is designed to assist with tasks such as writing emails, creating content, and providing research assistance.
Enhanced Conversational Experience in Cars
In the car, Gemini might shine the most. You won’t have to be as precise with requests when driving, and those requests can be more open-ended than ever. ‘You can find me a charging station on the way to the post office that’s also near a park, so you can go for a walk before your errands while your car is charging.’
Find Hub Gets a Rebrand
Google’s Find My Devices app is getting a rebrand to ‘Find Hub‘. The app now allows loved ones to share their location with each other, much like how Apple’s system works. Google says more third-party tracker support is on the way, from an integration with Peak to find lost skis, and upcoming ultra-wideband support with the Moto Tag from Motorola.
Satellite Connectivity Coming Soon
Later this year, Find Hub will integrate satellite connectivity on compatible devices, allowing users to share their Bluetooth tracker’s location with select airlines in 2026, a feature available with AirTags and iPhones.
