Android 16 Revolutionizes Your Smartphone’s Notification Panel: Find Out How!

Android 16 is set to introduce an unexpected change to its user interface. A key part of the display may soon operate differently. An initial glimpse of this has been spotted in a confidential test version.

Each year, the Google I/O conference serves as a platform to unveil new services and products from the Mountain View-based company. The most recent event focused heavily on artificial intelligence. There were no updates regarding the Pixel smartphones or Android 16, the next version expected by June 2025 if all goes well. However, not to disappoint, the company quietly made amends by rolling out the beta 1 of Android 16 QPR1.

Essentially, this is the first update Android 16 will receive post its global launch. It is compatible with Pixel smartphones from the 6 up to the Pixel 9a. Therefore, it provides a preview of the upcoming Pixel Drop scheduled for September 2025, which will introduce exclusive features to the range. The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 reveals the new Material 3 Expressive design and a revamped notifications interface, featuring a more rounded aesthetic and more flexible Settings tiles.

Android 16 Tests a Separation of Notifications and Quick Settings On-Demand

In a leak spotted by MysticLeaks and reported by Android Authority, an internal version of Android 16 displays a different layout for the upper panel. Unlike the traditional display where notifications and quick settings share the same space, this version separates the two panels. Users can swipe from the left for notifications or from the right for Quick Settings. This functionality is reminiscent of what is already implemented on Samsung smartphones. This design choice could allow faster access to certain features without having to scroll through the entire panel, potentially enhancing user fluidity.

This separate mode is not yet visible in the current beta as it comes from a so-called “dogfood” build, used internally at Google. According to the leak, it is still unstable and displays bugs when multiple contents are present on the screen. Therefore, it is not expected to be released to the public versions immediately. However, the key takeaway is that this feature will remain optional. A simple toggle will allow users to switch back to the combined display. This flexible approach allows everyone to choose the interface that suits them best.