Google appears to be preparing one of the biggest changes to the Android interface in years. According to new leaks, the company is testing a redesign for Android 17 that would split the notification shade into two separate panels, effectively ending the unified “pull-down” menu that users have known for over a decade.
How the New Split View Works
The leaked interface suggests Google is moving toward a control scheme similar to what Apple and Xiaomi currently use. Instead of pulling down from anywhere to see everything, the screen would be divided into zones.
Swiping down from the left side would show your notifications. Swiping down from the right side would open the Quick Settings panel. This change is designed to reduce visual clutter, as the current single panel often feels overcrowded with media players, smart home controls, and alerts all fighting for space.
Separate Rules for Tablets and Phones
The report indicates that this new look might be mandatory for some devices but optional for others. On standard smartphones, users will likely find a setting to toggle between the new split view and the classic combined layout.
However, for tablets and foldable phones, the split interface is expected to be the default standard. Google seems to believe that on larger screens, separating these functions makes the device easier to manage, rather than stretching a single list across the entire display.
Fixing the Wi-Fi Button
Beyond the layout changes, the leak points to a feature that many long-time users have been asking for. Android 17 may finally bring back separate, dedicated buttons for Wi-Fi and mobile data.
Since Android 12, these have been bundled into a single “Internet” tile, which requires two taps to switch networks. If this leak holds true, Google is reversing that decision to make connectivity controls faster and more direct.
Market Impact & Context
This move signals that Google is acknowledging a design trend set by its partners. Manufacturers like Samsung and Xiaomi have used split panels for years to manage complex features. By adopting this natively, Google is bringing “stock” Android closer to the experience already offered by third-party skins and iOS.
Outlook
It is important to note that Android 17 is still in early development. While these features are currently being tested, Google often changes or scraps ideas before the final public release. We likely won’t see official confirmation until the developer previews launch later this year.
