Google's new Pixel software overhaul is an expressive barrel of fun

Material 3 Expressive is Google's best design work in years

For the past couple of months, I've been using a pre-release smartphone operating system that represents a significant design overhaul, with a greater focus on transparency and new visual elements that respond realistically to your touches and swipes.

No, I’m not talking about iOS 26, where Apple is seemingly changing its mind about the extent of its “Liquid Glass” design language with every subsequent beta. There are some great new features in there — and iPadOS 26 in particular is a huge upgrade for productivity — but I’d recommend most iPhone users wait for it to cook a little longer before checking it out.

I’m talking about Google’s Material 3 Expressive version of Android 16, which has been available on Pixel phones in beta form since May. I’ve been running it on my Pixel 9 since it was first released to developer channels. It’s flown under the radar somewhat, because although Android 16 has been publicly available for some time, this new accompanying redesign wasn’t timed for the launch, which made for an underwhelming update. 

That’s a shame, because Material 3 Expressive is actually really great — which is good news for anyone thinking of picking up a new Pixel 10-series phone when they launch later this month.