Google's Android 17 prototypes reveal a glass-like blur

A first look at Android 17's visual direction shows Google reaching for a softer, more layered aesthetic. The screenshots feature a subtle blur that washes over system menus and overlays, letting background content linger just enough to suggest depth without sacrificing clarity. The effect feels reminiscent of Apple's Liquid Glass approach, where translucency and gentle diffusion create a sense of space rather than flat blocks of color. The experiment hints at a shift from the stark, high-contrast surfaces that have defined Android for years toward a UI that feels more tactile and fluid. By allowing the underlying wallpaper or app content to bleed through, the new style could make interactions feel less isolated, turning every tap into a moment of visual continuity. If the concept moves beyond the prototype, users may soon navigate their devices through a veil of glass that feels both modern and familiar, reshaping how Android presents its core experiences.