Google just leaked Android’s new design language

The Verge - May 5th, 2025
Open on The Verge

Google inadvertently disclosed its upcoming Android redesign, Material 3 Expressive, in a blog post that was quickly deleted but captured by 9to5Google. This redesign is touted as the most researched update yet, undergoing 46 rounds of design and research with over 18,000 participants. The new design aims to enhance usability through the use of color, shape, size, and motion, reportedly allowing users to locate key interface elements up to four times faster. Material 3 Expressive will be featured in a session at the upcoming Google I/O event.

This development comes amidst reports of Google planning comprehensive updates to Android's user interface, including new status bar icons, a reimagined quick settings menu, and changes to the Google Clock app. The redesign is significant as it appears to improve accessibility across different age groups, allowing users over 45 years old to interact with the interface as efficiently as younger ones. While Google has not officially announced Material 3 Expressive, the leak highlights its commitment to refining user experience through extensive research and design innovation.

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RATING

7.4
Fair Story
Consider it well-founded

The article provides a clear and timely report on the accidental leak of Google's Material 3 Expressive design, supported by reputable sources like 9to5Google. It succeeds in delivering pertinent information to readers interested in technology and design changes. However, the story could benefit from a more balanced presentation by including diverse perspectives and independent verification of Google's claims. While the article is well-structured and easy to read, additional context and detailed explanations would enhance its clarity and transparency. Overall, the article effectively informs readers about the upcoming redesign but lacks depth in analysis and perspective.

RATING DETAILS

8
Accuracy

The story accurately reports on the accidental leak of Google's Material 3 Expressive design, citing a deleted blog post that was captured by the Wayback Machine and reported by 9to5Google. The article's claim that the redesign involved extensive research with 18,000 participants is supported by multiple sources. However, the claim about the design allowing users to find interface elements four times faster lacks independent verification, and the story does not provide direct evidence or a study to substantiate this performance metric. Additionally, the story mentions upcoming announcements at Google I/O but does not specify a date or confirm Google's official stance, which leaves some factual gaps.

7
Balance

The article primarily presents Google's perspective on the Material 3 Expressive redesign, focusing on the company's research and intended improvements. While it provides a comprehensive look at Google's claims, it lacks input from independent experts or users who could provide additional viewpoints on the redesign's effectiveness and usability. The story could benefit from a more balanced presentation by including potential criticisms or alternative opinions on the design changes.

8
Clarity

The language and structure of the article are clear and concise, making it easy for readers to follow the narrative about Google's Material 3 Expressive redesign. The story logically progresses from the leak to the specific design elements and anticipated announcements. However, the inclusion of more detailed explanations regarding the research methodology and performance metrics would enhance clarity, particularly for readers unfamiliar with design processes.

8
Source quality

The primary source for the story is a deleted Google blog post, which adds a level of authenticity to the claims, as it originates directly from the company. Additionally, 9to5Google and The Verge are reputable technology news outlets known for their reliable reporting. However, the story could improve by incorporating more diverse sources, such as interviews with design experts or feedback from users, to enhance the depth and reliability of the information presented.

6
Transparency

The article provides some transparency by mentioning the accidental nature of the leak and the use of the Wayback Machine to access the deleted post. However, it does not clearly explain the methodology behind Google's research or the specific metrics used to evaluate the design's effectiveness. The lack of detail on how the performance claims were assessed leaves readers without a full understanding of the basis for some of the story's assertions.

Sources

  1. https://www.androidcentral.com/apps-software/android-os/google-leaked-its-own-design-process-for-material-3-expressive
  2. https://chromeunboxed.com/google-leaks-the-reason-and-process-behind-their-new-material-3-expressive-design-language/
  3. https://9to5google.com/2025/05/05/material-3-expressive-leak/
  4. https://www.androidpolice.com/google-clock-leaked-expressive-redesign-reveals-material-you-evolution/
  5. https://9to5google.com/2025/05/04/google-clock-material-3-expressive-leak/