Android 12: Google found experimenting with new app notification layout

A lot has been talked about Android 12 already as Google has confirmed the existence of the OS version. A few days ago we saw the firm introducing the Android 12 Developer Preview 3, revealing all its new features in a blog post. However, it may have missed a minor yet important change for the app notifications. As reported by Android Police, in DP3, Google is adjusting the layout of stacked notifications. This will probably make it more visible as it makes better use of the space.

According to the screenshot posted by the website, this new stacked notification tweak is clearly seen for the Gmail app. Now, instead of showing the stacked notification count like ‘+16’ or ‘+20’ at the bottom right corner inside the same notification alert, the count will be shown right on the expansion arrow inside an app alert that we usually tap to see the expanded notification. This leaves more space for the text. In addition, the stacked number with an arrow on the top right is also seen inside a bubble with a different colour, which is being said to improve the visibility.

What’s more is that the screenshot shows the Gmail app icon (inside the notification alert) in a different, bright red colour.

However, since this is a part of the developer preview, it still doesn’t confirm if this tweak will reach the final version or not as these are purely meant for feedback purposes. If Google doesn’t receive good feedback, it might stick with the old layout.

Google is expected to officially launch Android 12 at its upcoming Google IO 2021 developers conference, which is going to be held from May 18 through 20th. Some of the features that have been confirmed in Android 12 Developer Preview 3 are new app launch animation for all apps, changes in incoming and outgoing call notifications, more expressive haptic effects like low tick and support for quad bayer camera sensors.