Google has made it clear that Android on Pixel phones will not be getting the Apple-themed Liquid Glass design style. Sameer Samat, the president of Android at Google, clarified this after the growing online discussions which suggested that Android could soon look similar to Apple’s latest software update. The speculation started after a teaser for The Android Show: I/O displayed the Android mascot turning translucent after switching on a light. Following that, the internet started linking the effect with Apple’s shiny and transparent Liquid Glass interface, which was recently introduced with iOS 26, followed by other Apple platforms.
The discussion around Android’s future design gained attention because several smartphone brands that use Android have already started experimenting with visual styles that resemble Apple’s latest interface. Companies such as Oppo and Xiaomi have already introduced cleaner layouts, glossy effects, and transparent elements in their custom Android skins. Moreover, Samsung too has adopted certain design choices that users often compare with Apple’s software direction.
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Many users have also been sharing a mockup of a glass-like Android interface for Google Pixel on social media platforms. Responding to one such post on social media, Samat wrote, ‘Not happening! Y’all are wild,’ quickly dismissing the idea.
Apple introduced Liquid Glass across iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26 as part of a wider push for a more unified software experience. The interface focuses on reflective layers, translucent menus, and fluid animations. Apple’s new design has received a mixed reaction since its inception, as while some users appreciated the new aesthetic for being contemporary and refreshing, others found it distracting and often complained that it’s hard to read.
While all this was ongoing, Google was quietly and constantly upgrading the design concept known as Google’s Material Design. The mountain-view-based tech giant had been working on the concept since 2014. Furthermore, Google has incorporated various improvements to its design concept, like adding vibrant colours, more sophisticated animations and customisation options for users. In the year 2025, Google introduced Material 3 Expressive, where it featured more dynamic theming and softer animations.
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Even though Google is not adopting Apple’s Liquid Glass style, reports suggest Android 17 could still include more translucent effects and blur elements. The expected changes are said to focus on a softer and flatter visual approach rather than highly reflective glass-like layers. Additional information regarding Android 17 will probably come out when Google announces Android in its presentation slated for May 12, in which the tech giant is expected to show off some new features and designs for its Pixel phones and Android in general.