What’s new for Android devs: Key takeaways from the Android Show I/O Edition

In the latest installment of The Android Show: I/O Edition, Google pulled back the curtain on key updates headed to Android developers, highlighting tools and system enhancements aimed at shaping the future of app development across phones, tablets, and wearables.

Material 3 Expressive: A Fresh UX Toolkit

A centerpiece of this edition is the rollout of Material 3 Expressive, the newest iteration of Google’s design system. Tailored for Android 16, this update offers developers more flexibility to build apps that are not only functional but emotionally resonant. With expanded support for motion dynamics, new typography, color palettes, and shape elements, Material 3 Expressive aims to elevate app aesthetics while keeping user flow intuitive.

This design overhaul isn’t just cosmetic—it brings structural upgrades for UI builders looking to craft engaging experiences. A deeper dive into its components and use cases will be available during Google I/O’s design-focused sessions.

Wear OS 6: Optimized for Circular Interfaces

Developers targeting wearable experiences will want to keep a close eye on Wear OS 6, launching later this year. The update brings Material 3 Expressive to smartwatches, with a special emphasis on round displays. Every element—from buttons to notifications—has been redesigned to seamlessly fit circular layouts, creating a more unified and native feel for watch-based apps.

This move suggests a push for more thoughtful design in wearables, encouraging developers to rethink how interactions and animations should flow on smaller, round screens.

Android 16: Features That Matter to Developers

Google also outlined significant improvements landing with Android 16, now in beta. While users can expect a more secure and responsive platform, developers will find several tools worth exploring:

• Live Updates: New templates, such as ProgressStyle, enable better communication of time-sensitive information—ideal for transit, delivery, and rideshare apps.
• Pro Media Capabilities: Apps focused on photography or video can now tap into advanced tools like hybrid auto exposure, improved low-light detection, and granular color temperature controls.
• Tablet & Desktop Enhancements: With Android 16, Google strengthens multi-window and desktop-style experiences for large-screen devices, providing more options for productivity-focused apps.
• Accessibility: The update also introduces substantial improvements in accessibility tools, signaling an ongoing push to support inclusive design across all Android platforms.