Exploring Android 16's Upcoming Quick Settings Revamp

Android 15 recently hit AOSP and Google Pixel devices will be receiving them soon, followed by other manufacturers. It shouldn’t be surprising to assume Google has already started working on Android 16, and one of the first major changes the giant is planning is a complete revamp of Android’s notification and Quick Settings panel.

Understanding the Backlash of Android 12’s Quick Settings

The introduction of Android 12 brought significant changes to the Quick Settings panel, which faced considerable backlash from users. Many users disliked the enlarged 1×2 tiles that took up excessive space, leading to a cluttered interface. The removal of essential features and tiles, such as the Mobile Data toggle, made navigation cumbersome for many.

Despite some updates in Android 14 that introduced expanded Bluetooth settings, many users still felt that the Quick Settings panel did not meet their needs. As a result, there is a growing anticipation for Android 16 to rectify these long-standing issues. The overall aesthetics and functionality of the Quick Settings and Notifications panel are expected to undergo a much-needed transformation.

Key Changes Expected in Android 16’s Quick Settings

Android expert Mishaal Rahman has enabled the new Quick Settings panel in Android 15 QPR1, showcasing a vastly different design that is likely to launch with Android 16. One significant change is the panel’s new overlay appearance, which removes the dark shade that previously existed beneath the Quick Settings.

Another major enhancement involves the QS tiles. While there will still be four 1×2 tiles, the addition of eight 1×1 tiles will allow users to fit a total of 12 tiles. This improvement aims to increase the accessibility and usability of Quick Settings for various tasks and settings. Furthermore, a long-awaited light mode is also in the works, offering a bright alternative to the current dark theme.

Streamlined Tile Editing Experience

Editing and managing tiles in the current Quick Settings menu can be a tedious process. The enlarged tiles occupy a lot of space, making it challenging to rearrange them efficiently. However, with the new design in Android 16, users will find that editing tiles becomes much easier.

The updated edit section will allow for straightforward dragging and adjusting icons, similar to how app icons are managed on the home screen. This change is made possible by the introduction of smaller icons in both the main QS section and the tile selection menu, enhancing user experience.

Challenges with the New Quick Settings Access

While the new Quick Settings features are promising, there is a potential drawback regarding accessibility. Android 16’s Quick Settings panel will require a two-finger swipe for access, eliminating the option for a partial QS with a single swipe. Instead, users will only see pending notifications with one swipe, which may detract from the efficiency of accessing quick settings.

This change may stem from the need to improve usability on taller phones, where one-handed access can be cumbersome. However, the requirement for two fingers could take some time for users to adjust to, especially since it reduces the instantaneous nature of “quick” settings. If notifications are not visible beneath the new expanded Quick Settings panel, this could further complicate user experience.

Anticipating the Future of Quick Settings in Android 16

The upcoming changes in Android 16's Quick Settings panel promise a significant revamp that many users will appreciate. However, separating the notification panel from Quick Settings could lead to mixed reactions among users. While some may welcome the aesthetic and functional improvements, others might find the new access method less convenient.

As we await the official release, it is evident that Google is keen on refining the user experience in Android 16, particularly concerning the Quick Settings feature. What are your thoughts on these anticipated changes? Are there additional features or improvements you would like to see in Android 16? Share your insights in the comments below!