Telegram’s Android App Embraces ‘Liquid Glass’ Design in Major Redesign
Telegram has unveiled a significant redesign for its Android application, introducing the ‘Liquid Glass’ aesthetic that brings a fresh, modern look to the user interface. This update, available in version 12.4.0, is now rolling out widely via the Google Play Store.
Key Features of the Redesign:
1. Four-Tab Bottom Navigation Bar: The new design introduces a bottom navigation bar with four tabs: Chats, Contacts, Settings, and Profile. This layout is reminiscent of iOS design elements, providing a familiar and intuitive navigation experience.
2. Enhanced Transparency Elements: The update incorporates transparent UI components, especially noticeable in the app’s light mode. This transparency adds depth and a sleek appearance to the interface.
3. Removal of the Hamburger Menu: The traditional side menu has been replaced. Options such as New Group and other features previously found in the hamburger menu are now accessible via a three-dot overflow menu located at the top right of the Chats screen.
Background and User Reception:
This redesign builds upon earlier updates from late 2025, where Telegram began integrating ‘Liquid Glass’ elements into specific parts of the app. The current overhaul extends this design language throughout the entire application, aligning the Android version more closely with its iOS counterpart, which adopted the ‘Liquid Glass’ design in early January 2026.
User reactions to the new design have been mixed. While some appreciate the modernized interface, others have expressed concerns over the departure from the app’s previous design conventions. Feedback highlights a divide between users who favor the aesthetic enhancements and those who prefer the traditional layout.
Comparative Context:
The adoption of ‘Liquid Glass’ design elements is part of a broader trend in app development, where transparency and fluidity are emphasized to create more engaging user experiences. For instance, the Waymo app introduced a simplified bottom bar with ‘Liquid Glass’ elements in December 2025, enhancing its visual appeal. Similarly, YouTube rolled out a translucent bottom bar on both Android and iOS platforms in December 2024, aiming to provide a more immersive browsing experience.
Conclusion:
Telegram’s latest update signifies a bold step towards a unified and contemporary design language across platforms. As the ‘Liquid Glass’ aesthetic becomes more prevalent, it reflects a shift towards interfaces that prioritize transparency, depth, and user engagement. Users are encouraged to explore the new design and provide feedback, as Telegram continues to refine its user experience.
