Google’s latest update, Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1, brings a series of refinements to the user interface, focusing on the volume control system and media player. These changes aim to enhance user interaction through a more streamlined and visually appealing design.
Revamped Volume Slider and Panel
The volume control interface has undergone a significant transformation. While the overall pill-shaped container remains, the slider itself has been redesigned to adopt a more rectangular form, aligning with Google’s Material Design 3 guidelines. This new design features a distinct handle, facilitating more precise volume adjustments. Additionally, the top button, which toggles between vibrate, mute, and sound modes, now displays the current selection within a circle, while the other two options are presented as squares, enhancing visual clarity.
A notable addition is the animated waveform that appears at the bottom of the slider when audio is playing, providing a dynamic visual representation of the sound. In the absence of audio playback, this area displays a three-dot icon, maintaining a clean and consistent interface.
The full volume panel has also been updated to incorporate these thinner, more refined sliders, offering a cohesive look across the system. However, it’s important to note that the Settings app under Sound & Vibration has not yet been updated to reflect these new sliders in Beta 1, indicating that further refinements are expected in future releases.
Media Player Enhancements
The media player has received subtle yet impactful tweaks. The play button has transitioned from a circular to a rounded rectangular shape, while the pause button maintains its rounded rectangle form. These changes contribute to a more modern and cohesive design language. The lava lamp effect, which provides a dynamic background during playback, remains intact, as does the radiating wave animation that occurs when the play/pause button is tapped, adding a layer of visual engagement to the user experience.
Output Switcher Refinements
The Output Switcher has been streamlined for improved usability. The Connect Device button has been reduced in size, making it less obtrusive while still accessible. The updated sliders are also integrated into this feature, ensuring consistency across the user interface.
Additional Audio Features
An Audio Sharing option has been spotted in the Settings under Connection Preferences on a Pixel 9 device. This feature, which appeared briefly during the Android 16 Developer Preview, suggests upcoming capabilities for sharing audio experiences, though details remain limited at this stage.
Conclusion
The Android 16 QPR1 Beta 1 update reflects Google’s ongoing commitment to refining the user experience through thoughtful design enhancements. The redesigned volume slider and panel, along with the media player and output switcher improvements, offer a more intuitive and visually appealing interface. As these features are currently in beta, users can anticipate further refinements and additional functionalities in the final release.
