Apple’s iOS 26, Google’s Android 16, and Samsung’s One UI 7 have launched, showcasing distinct design philosophies and features for 2023. However, it remains to be seen whether these updates bring substantial improvements or just fresh aesthetics.
iOS 26 introduces the Liquid Glass redesign, providing a cohesive glass-like interface across iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and visionOS. This update enhances visual uniformity but maintains familiar functionalities.
On the other hand, Android 16 presents Google’s Material 3 Expressive design language. While the operating system was just released, full implementation will come later with its QPR1 release.
Users can, however, explore new elements already included in the beta version. Similarly, Samsung’s One UI 7 builds on its prior designs and is colorful yet conservative in terms of revolutionary updates.
Users can expect improvements but likely no major transformations. In terms of lock screens, iOS 26 incorporates a bold clock face inspired by past Android updates.
The Liquid Glass effect and a parallax wallpaper are fresh additions. One UI 7 and Android 16 also offer extensive customization options for personalization.
Apple’s iOS 26 features cleaner stock icons that resemble glass. In contrast, One UI 7 and Android 16 utilize icon tinting, but achieving a similar look requires external custom launchers and icon packs.
Control Center and quick toggles in iOS 26 carry the Liquid Glass style, though they face readability issues. However, the quick toggles in Android 16 and One UI 7 work seamlessly within their system color palettes.
Settings in iOS 26 see adjustments in layout and search functionality, whereas Android 16 and One UI 7 remain stable. The Photos app in iOS 26 reverts to a more user-friendly layout, while Samsung’s Gallery app and Google Photos in Android 16 present familiar interfaces.
Additionally, the camera app in iOS 26 has been redesigned, adopting layouts similar to its competitors. Lastly, while Siri remains largely unchanged in iOS 26, the Gemini smart assistant in Android 16 and One UI 7 offers advanced capabilities, enhancing user interaction.
Overall, while each OS has introduced visual upgrades and features, the question of whether these updates represent substantial progress continues to linger.