Google’s upcoming Android 17 is poised to introduce a significant visual overhaul, borrowing heavily from Apple’s “Liquid Glass” design language. Early builds of the operating system reveal a system-wide implementation of blur and transparency effects, a move that builds upon earlier experiments with similar features in Android 16.
The shift towards a more translucent interface is evident in elements like the volume panel, where the UI now blends with the user’s wallpaper and app icons, creating a layered aesthetic. This isn’t Google’s first foray into transparency; blur effects were initially introduced in the notification and quick settings panels with Android 16 QPR1. However, Android 17 appears to be extending this effect across a much broader range of system elements, aiming for a more cohesive and visually integrated experience.
According to reports, the implementation in Android 17 is more subtle than Apple’s Liquid Glass. While the effect is noticeable, it’s designed to be less intrusive, potentially addressing concerns about readability and visual clutter. However, as with any visual effect, there’s a potential trade-off with battery life. The added processing required to render the blur could result in a slight drain on power, although Google is likely working to optimize performance.
The move to adopt a Liquid Glass-inspired design comes as other Android manufacturers also experiment with similar aesthetics. This suggests a broader trend within the mobile operating system landscape towards softer, more visually dynamic interfaces. The underlying UI flags driving these changes suggest a deliberate and system-level approach, indicating that this isn’t simply a cosmetic tweak but a fundamental shift in design philosophy.
Beyond the visual changes, Android 17 is also expected to include practical upgrades. Google is reportedly testing a more privacy-focused method for sharing contacts with applications, addressing growing user concerns about data security. The update introduces “Motion Cues,” a feature designed to mitigate motion sickness while using a phone in a moving vehicle. Stronger system support for physical game controllers is also in development, catering to the growing mobile gaming market.
The release of Android 17 is currently slated for a public announcement at Google I/O 2026, with a rollout to Pixel devices expected in June 2026. While the current visuals are based on internal builds and are subject to change, the direction is clear: Android is embracing a more fluid and visually layered design.
The list of devices expected to receive the Android 17 update includes a wide range of Pixel, Samsung, and Xiaomi models. Specifically, the following Pixel devices are anticipated to be supported:
- Pixel 10 Pro XL
- Pixel 10 Pro
- Pixel 10
- Pixel 9 Pro XL
- Pixel 9 Pro
- Pixel 9
- Pixel 9a
- Pixel 8 Pro
- Pixel 8
- Pixel 8a
- Pixel 7 Pro
- Pixel 7
- Pixel 7a
- Pixel 6
- Pixel 6 Pro
- Pixel 6a
Samsung devices expected to receive the update include:
- Galaxy S26
- Galaxy S26 Plus
- Galaxy S26 Ultra
- Galaxy Z Fold 7
- Galaxy Z Flip 7
- Galaxy S25 Ultra
- Galaxy S25 Plus
- Galaxy S25
And Xiaomi’s supported devices are projected to be:
- Xiaomi 17 Ultra
- Xiaomi 17 Pro
- Xiaomi 17
The final version of Android 17, following beta testing, is anticipated to reach all flagship devices by the end of 2026. The adoption of Liquid Glass-style effects represents a significant design shift for Android, and its success will likely depend on how well Google balances aesthetics with performance and usability.
