Android 17 may reverse one of Google’s most aggravating UI choices.
What you should know
– Android 17 might finally refresh Quick Settings after years of the same chaotic pull-down interface.
– Standard Pixel devices could receive this as an option, allowing users to pick between the traditional combined view and the new split format.
– Tablets and foldables probably won’t have a choice — split view might be obligatory on larger displays such as the Pixel Fold.
– Wi-Fi and mobile data toggles might be divided again, reversing Android 12’s debated unified Internet toggle.
The Quick Settings panel in Android has remained unchanged for years, and it seems Google may finally address that flaw.
Recent leaks regarding Android 17 indicate that Google is preparing for a significant update in how notifications and system toggles function. According to Mystic Leaks on Telegram, Android may soon feature a tidier, more structured split instead of a single wide pull-down for everything.
Presently, Android’s notification shade and Quick Settings occupy the same congested area on stock devices like Pixel phones. Pull down once for notifications, and pull down again for toggles. It functions, but it’s cluttered, particularly on larger phones where everything seems piled together.
The latest leak mentions that Google is evaluating a genuine split layout in Android 17. This means that swiping from the left edge would display only notifications, while swiping from the right would showcase Quick Settings.
If this rings a bell, it’s because brands like Samsung and Xiaomi already implement a similar method. The distinctiveness is that Google would make this official within Android itself, instead of relegating it to custom skins.
For regular Pixel users, this alteration appears to be optional. You’ll likely be able to navigate to Settings > Notifications and toggle between the traditional “Combined” view and the newly proposed “Separate” layout, as reported earlier by Android Authority.
However, for those with a tablet or a foldable, options may be limited. The leak specifies that split-view mode will be mandatory on larger-screen devices. On a Pixel Fold, you could switch to split view on the inner display, while only the outer screen might permit reverting to the traditional merged look. This approach is sensible for larger screens, but compelling power users to adapt their workflow carries some risk.
Wi-Fi and mobile data toggles may finally become less bothersome
The second enhancement is more nuanced and, according to some, long overdue.
Android 12 introduced the combined Internet toggle, which required a mini menu to alternate between Wi-Fi and mobile data. Google claimed this helped avoid accidental disconnects, but users believed it complicated matters. That discussion continues.
The new leak proposes that Android 17 could reintroduce separate toggles for Wi-Fi and mobile data. Mystic Leaks suggests that Google is testing layouts that load more quickly and offer one-tap access.
This approach reduces accidental taps for casual users while delivering faster control for power users. It’s a rare win-win for Android’s interface.
Of course, none of these modifications are yet guaranteed. They remain concealed in early Android 17 builds, meaning Google could revise, postpone, or even scrap them entirely prior to launch.