Android 17 to feature transparent design courtesy of Apple Liquid Glass

According to the latest information from 9to5Google, reportedly sourced from an internal Google beta version of Android 17, the upcoming OS will feature a "blur" look. Google is said to be replacing solid-color backgrounds system-wide with transparent overlays that soften the elements behind them. This approach is strongly reminiscent of the "Liquid Glass" design of the Apple iPhone 17, although it's likely that Google won't go quite as far as Apple.

Google may improve readability, for example, by blurring objects more or slightly darkening them. The transparency is intended to make navigating the operating system easier, as it would allow users to see which app is currently running in the background, even with quick settings open. Google is expected to apply this design to numerous elements throughout the operating system, from the volume control to the battery indicator. These elements will still be tinted by the user's chosen accent color.

According to 9to5Google, the new OS primarily focuses on appearance, with little change to the functionality of the basic operating system elements. Previous rumors have suggested that Google is also borrowing from the Apple iPhone in other areas, such as separating notifications and quick settings depending on whether the user swipes down from the top left or right edge of the screen. Android 17 is also expected to receive significant improvements for gaming. The operating system update is slated for release sometime from June onwards.