Google Tests Major Android 17 Interface Overhaul
Google appears to be testing significant user interface changes for the upcoming Android 17 operating system. Recent leaks suggest the company is preparing a redesigned notification and settings system that could transform how users interact with their devices.
Split-Screen Notifications and Quick Settings
The most noticeable change involves a new "dual-shade" layout for notifications and Quick Settings. This split design would allow users to access notifications by swiping down from the left side of the screen. Meanwhile, swiping from the right side would open the Quick Settings panel.
This approach aims to reduce scrolling and provide more room for controls. Users might see improvements like a new volume slider and better organization of frequently used settings.
Mandatory for Tablets and Foldables
The new layout reportedly becomes mandatory for tablets and foldable phones. Google wants to better utilize their larger screens with this two-panel interface. Regular phone users will likely have a choice between the new split view and the classic combined panel.
However, foldable phone users face an interesting situation. The inner screen would show the split layout, while the cover display would keep the traditional combined version. According to leaks, tablet users won't have any option to switch back to the classic view.
Return of Separate Internet Toggles
Android 17 might finally address one of Google's most unpopular design decisions. For years, users have complained about the combined Quick Settings internet tile that merged Wi-Fi and mobile data into a single button.
The latest leaks confirm Google plans to reintroduce separate toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data. This change would give users quicker access to individual network controls without navigating through multiple menus.
Building on Existing Designs
The Android 17 UI won't introduce completely new concepts. Instead, it appears to standardize the split notification and Quick Settings panels already used by several manufacturers. Companies like Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus have implemented similar designs in their customized Android versions.
Google has reportedly fixed most visual problems and technical bugs that affected earlier versions of this feature. This suggests the two-panel interface has reached a refined state ready for wider implementation.
User Control and Settings
Code discovered in May 2025 indicated Google plans to add a new "Notifications & Quick Settings" option in the settings menu. This page would let users switch between the current combined version and the new separate view.
Foldable device users might see a special message explaining that the combined panel works only on the outer screen. This clarifies the different behaviors between the device's various display modes.
Development Timeline and Evidence
The split layout was first spotted by Android Authority's Mishaal Rahman back in 2024. Since then, multiple leaks have provided additional details about Google's plans.
In December 2025, a lead developer from LineageOS discovered code pointing to an optional switch that splits the internet tile. This discovery aligned with earlier reports about separate Wi-Fi and mobile data buttons returning to Android.
The consistent information from different sources suggests these changes have been in development for some time. Google appears ready to implement them in the next major Android version.
