Android 17 to feature semi-transparent and blurred interface design

Google is reportedly planning a significant visual overhaul for Android 17, shifting towards semi-transparent and blurred interface elements. According to leaks, the next OS version, codenamed Cinnamon Bun, draws inspiration from the "frosted glass" effect familiar to iOS users through Liquid Glass design, but interprets it uniquely. Instead of the usual solid color panels, Android will begin to more actively employ depth and transparency.

The company took its first steps in this direction with Material 3 Expressive, where subtle blurring appeared in the notification shade and quick settings panel. The idea was for the interface not to completely obscure content but to maintain a visual connection with what the user was previously doing. This approach makes navigation feel more natural and reduces the sense of a "heavy" interface.

In Android 17, this concept appears set to expand much further. In test builds spotted by 9to5Google journalists, the blurring effect extends to key system elements. For instance, the volume slider has become semi-transparent, allowing wallpapers or app icons underneath to show through. Additionally, Dynamic Color will tint these blurred panels with shades matching the current theme and wallpaper, creating a more cohesive look.

Despite obvious parallels with Apple's design and recent visual experiments from Samsung, rumors suggest Google is aiming for a more restrained and polished implementation. Transparency is being used not just for effect, but to improve the perception of interface structure and on-screen element hierarchy.

Users will be able to evaluate these changes firsthand no earlier than the release of the first Developer Preview for Android 17, expected in early 2026. It remains unclear whether the new style will be limited to system menus or if Google will offer updated Material Design guidelines for third-party app developers with support for this "glass-like" interface.