June 30, 2025, 3:05 am | Read time: 3 minutes
The Google I/O is officially scheduled for next week. However, the company is already hosting a special event to showcase the future direction for Android users.
Just before the developer conference I/O, Google unveiled new design and AI features for Android, WearOS, Auto, and other systems in the Android Show. Central to these updates is the deep integration of Gemini.
Android 16 Gets a More Dynamic Design
With Android 16, Google is fundamentally revamping the user interface for the first time since the introduction of the “Material You” design in Android 12, as reported by “Computer BILD” (part of Axel Springer SE, like TECHBOOK). The new look is called Material 3 Expressive. While the familiar clean lines and airy spaces remain, Google is now focusing on a more emotional and responsive user experience.
A novel animation causes elements around a swiped-away notification to resonate—similar to the ripple effect of a stone thrown into water. This is complemented by smoothly blending backgrounds designed to create depth and dynamism. According to Google, colors and typography appear more harmonious and visually appealing.
Additionally, there will be more customization options, such as expanded quick settings. The current design examples are brimming with animations and unconventional shapes. How the new design will perform in everyday use and how third-party apps will leverage the possibilities remains to be seen.
Lock Screen with Live Information
Another new feature is reminiscent of one found on the iPhone since iOS 16.1: Android 16 brings so-called live updates directly to the lock screen. Compatible apps can display their current status in mini-widgets—such as the location of a taxi or the progress of a food delivery. This keeps users informed without needing to open the app.
Also interesting: Why the Majority of Android Smartphones Are Insecure
WearOS Also Featured at the Android Show
Google’s smartwatch operating system WearOS is getting an update alongside Android 16. With WearOS 6, Google is placing special emphasis on round displays. Tiles and controls make better use of the space and speed up access to key functions. This also affects the design of notifications.
Furthermore, Google promises improved energy efficiency. According to their own statements, the system is expected to reduce battery consumption and enable up to ten percent longer runtimes on the same hardware.
Cross-Platform Integration of Gemini
The central element of all the updates is Google’s generative artificial intelligence Gemini. After Google had already announced the introduction of the Gemini voice assistant as a replacement for Google Assistant (and later Bard) on current Android smartphones, the expansion to other devices is now following.
Gemini will soon be available on smartwatches with WearOS, Android TV devices, and Android Auto. The goal is to enable context-based and complex voice commands. For example, drivers can search for a car charging station along the way or a nearby dog-walking spot.
A new feature called “Let’s talk live” allows users to stay in conversation with Gemini continuously. The integration will initially occur in Android Auto and is expected to later extend to cars with Google integration in the infotainment system.
There are still limitations on accessing personal content: Queries like “What was the restaurant Emily mentioned in her email for tonight?” are only possible with an active Google Workspace account, according to Google—a feature not available to private users with Gmail.
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Gemini in Mixed Reality Thanks to Android XR
During the presentation, Google also provided a first glimpse into Android XR, a new system for mixed-reality headsets developed in collaboration with Samsung. The project is codenamed “Project Moohan.” Here, too, Gemini is expected to play a central role in the future.