Google is bringing major visual changes to Android 16 and Wear OS 6 with a new design language called Material 3 Expressive. The update, announced on May 13, focuses on bouncier animations, deeper color themes, and more responsive interactions.
Material 3 Expressive builds on the existing Material You design introduced in Android 12. The new version adds springy animations, smoother transitions, dynamic color changes, and emphasized typography. These changes aim to make the interface feel more alive and intuitive — similar to Apple’s iOS animations.
In Android 16, users will notice animations when pulling down notifications, closing apps, or using the Quick Settings menu, which can now be customized more like iOS’s Control Center. The lock screen will also support Live Updates, showing real-time app notifications like sports scores or delivery progress.
For Wear OS 6, the visual updates are more subtle due to the smaller screen size. However, you’ll still see smoother scrolling, color theming that matches your watch face, and improved battery life — up to 10% more, according to Google.
Google claims this is its most researched design update ever. The company says 87% of users aged 18–24 prefer expressive designs, and the changes also improve clarity for users over 45.
Material 3 Expressive is set to launch with Android 16 and Wear OS 6 later this year. More details are expected at Google I/O 2025, which runs from May 20 to May 23.
