Opinion: Android 16 has gone full Gen Z, and I’m not here for it

Android 16 is coming soon, and it'll introduce some of the biggest visual changes we've ever seen to Google's phone software.

- Source: I am one. ANYRON COPEMAN reports

The new 'Material 3 Expressive' design is a dramatic refresh of the familiar Android experience, which aims to make your device feel more 'unique to you'. Using elements of colour, shape and motion, Google says it “inspires emotion, communicates function, and helps users achieve their goals”.

The target audience for this new design is no secret: it’s Gen Z. In an official blog post, Google specifically highlights the high approval rates for this so-called 'expressive design' among people aged 18 to 24.

At 27, I don't quite fall into that category, though I am just about young enough to be considered Gen Z. As someone who already uses Android every day, Google doesn't need to convince me to make the switch, but it clearly wants to tempt other young people away from the iPhone.

However, based on the screenshots, videos and GIFs already shared, I believe the company is taking the wrong approach. Here's why.

IF IT AIN'T BROKE...

Google clearly thinks that it needs to make big changes to make Android 16 appeal to Gen Z. My argument is that it has already done that.

As the company itself acknowledges, the introduction of the original 'Material You' in 2021 has been a success. Android 15 feels more responsive and intuitive than past versions, with just the right level of customisation and some unique design elements.

By dramatically increasing how 'expressive' Android 16 is, Google risks ruining what makes Android so good: subtlety.