Android 17 Leaks Surface: Major UI Redesign with Blur Effects and New Features
Exciting leaks about Android 17 are emerging online, offering a glimpse into Google's next major operating system update. According to reports from 9to5Google, one of the most visually striking changes involves the introduction of a sophisticated blur effect across system UI elements.
Polished Interface with Dynamic Blur Effects
Instead of traditional solid backgrounds, system menus such as the volume slider and power menu will now feature translucent layers. This innovative design allows wallpaper colors and app icons to subtly show through, creating a more immersive visual experience. The blur effect is dynamically themed, adapting to different contexts and giving the Android interface a significantly more polished and modern appearance that enhances overall aesthetics.
Redesigned Screen Recording Tool
The screen recording functionality is receiving a substantial overhaul in Android 17. Reports indicate the current pop-up menu will be replaced by a floating pill interface with streamlined options including:
- Record device audio
- Record microphone input
- Show touches on screen
Once recording begins, the pill remains accessible for easy controls. Additionally, users will gain enhanced capabilities to doodle on recordings using multiple colors, access settings directly, and preview clips before sharing or editing them.
Native App Lock Functionality
Another significant leak suggests Android 17 will introduce a native 'lock app' option when users long-press on applications. This feature indicates Google is testing built-in app-lock functionality that could potentially allow users to secure sensitive applications without relying on third-party tools, enhancing privacy and security directly within the operating system.
Split Notification and Quick Settings Panels
The Android 17 UI design is expected to closely match the split notification and Quick Settings panels already implemented by several smartphone manufacturers including Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus in their customized Android versions. According to the latest leaks, Google has addressed most visual problems and technical bugs that affected earlier iterations of this feature, suggesting the two-panel interface is now much more refined and likely to debut in Android 17.
However, there appears to be a significant limitation for certain devices. Leakers claim that foldable phones and tablets will be forced to use the new split layout on their larger screens without any option to revert to the classic combined notification and Quick Settings panel. This means tablets will always display the split view, while on foldables, the interface will depend on which screen is active—only the cover display will show the classic combined version.
The navigation scheme for foldables suggests swiping down from the left side of the inner screen will open notifications, while swiping down from the right will access Quick Settings. While this approach makes practical sense for devices with larger displays, some users who prefer the combined interface will reportedly have no alternative on foldables and tablets.
User Control Over Panel Layout
In May 2025, code discoveries first indicated Google's plans to introduce a new "Notifications & Quick Settings" option within Settings > Notifications. This dedicated page will allow users to switch between the current "combined" version and the new "separate" view. Consistent with recent leaks, reports mention a special message that will appear exclusively on foldable devices, explaining that the combined panel functions only on the outer screen.
Reversal of Unpopular Internet Tile Design
Android 17 may finally address one of Google's most criticized design decisions. For years, users have expressed frustration with the combined Quick Settings internet tile that merged Wi-Fi and mobile data into a single button. Until recently, there was little indication Google intended to modify this approach, but that changed following the Android 16 QPR2 release.
In December 2025, a lead LineageOS developer discovered code pointing to an optional switch that would separate the internet tile back into distinct Wi-Fi and mobile data buttons. The latest leaks confirm this development and suggest this much-requested change will likely arrive with Android 17, giving users greater control over their connectivity settings.
These comprehensive leaks paint a picture of an Android 17 update focused on visual refinement, enhanced functionality, and addressing long-standing user feedback, potentially making it one of Google's most significant Android releases in recent years.
