'Not happening': Google rejects rumors of Apple-like Liquid Glass UI
What's the story
Google has quashed rumors of its flagship Pixel smartphones adopting Apple's new Liquid Glass user interface (UI). The speculation was fueled by a mockup image that went viral online. However, Sameer Samat, Google's President of the Android Ecosystem, took to X to set the record straight. "Not happening! Y'all are wild," he wrote, emphasizing that Google will stick with its own design philosophy instead of following Apple's lead.
Design philosophy
Liquid Glass and Android OEM adaptations
Apple's Liquid Glass design, known for its layered translucency and floating UI elements, has divided opinions among designers and users alike. While some Android OEMs like OPPO, Xiaomi, and Samsung have already adopted Apple-inspired tweaks in their skins, Google remains committed to Material Design. The company has evolved Material Design language into Material 3 Expressive, focusing on personalization, accessibility, and user-friendly layouts.
Upcoming features
What's next for Google and Android?
Google has teased that "The Android Show" on May 12, 2026, will be one of the biggest years yet for Android. Industry watchers expect announcements around deeper AI integration, refinements in Material Design, and possibly new under-display biometric technologies. For Pixel users, the message is clear: Liquid Glass is off the table, and Google will continue to differentiate its devices with its own design identity.