Android 17 Could Introduce a Split Layout for Notifications and Quick Settings

Google appears to be working on a notable interface change that could reshape how Android users interact with notifications and system controls. Instead of the familiar single pull-down shade, the company is reportedly testing a split layout that separates notifications from Quick Settings. This approach is designed to offer a cleaner, more structured experience and may debut with Android 17, following early experimentation seen in unfinished Android 16 beta builds.

Leaks indicate that the redesigned system relies on different swipe gestures to access each panel. Notifications and Quick Settings would no longer stack within the same view, potentially making it easier for users to focus on alerts without visual distractions. The change is also expected to better accommodate larger displays, where a single combined panel can feel cluttered or inefficient.

According to information shared by tipster Mystic Leaks and reported by 9to5Google, the split interface has evolved since its initial appearance in internal Android 16 builds. In the latest leaked version tied to Android 17, swiping down from the left side of the screen reportedly opens the notifications panel, while a swipe from the right edge brings up Quick Settings. This gesture-based separation mirrors navigation patterns already familiar to users of certain Android skins.

If rolled out publicly, the update would align stock Android more closely with custom interfaces from manufacturers such as Samsung and Xiaomi, which already use similar split layouts. Reports suggest Google has addressed earlier visual glitches and usability concerns, indicating the feature is nearing readiness. Should it make the final cut, this redesign would represent one of the most significant changes to Android’s notification system in recent years.

Oppo A6c Debuts With 6,500mAh Battery and Snapdragon 685 Processor: Price and Key Specifications

Oppo has expanded its entry-level smartphone lineup in China with the launch of the Oppo A6c, targeting users who prioritize battery endurance and smooth display performance at an affordable price point. The device features a large screen with a high refresh rate, a dependable Qualcomm processor, and practical additions such as expandable storage and a 3.5mm headphone jack. It closely mirrors the Oppo A6x 4G that debuted in select international markets in December 2025, suggesting a rebranding strategy for the Chinese market.

In terms of pricing, the Oppo A6c is positioned firmly in the budget segment. The smartphone is priced at CNY 799 (roughly Rs. 72,100) in China and is offered in a single configuration with 6GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage. Buyers can choose between Orchid Purple and Olive Green color options, with availability confirmed through Oppo’s official online store.

The Oppo A6c sports a 6.75-inch HD+ LCD display with a resolution of 1570×720 pixels and a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. The panel supports up to a 240Hz touch sampling rate and offers full sRGB coverage in Natural mode, while Vivid mode delivers 85 percent DCI-P3 color coverage. Brightness levels reach up to 800 nits typically and peak at 1,125 nits, ensuring decent outdoor visibility.

Under the hood, the smartphone is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 chipset paired with an Adreno 610 GPU, delivering reliable performance for everyday tasks. It comes equipped with 6GB of LPDDR4X RAM and 128GB of UFS 2.2 storage, which can be expanded via a microSD card. The Oppo A6c runs on Android 15 with ColorOS 15 on top, offering the latest software experience along with Oppo’s custom features and optimizations.

Global Smartphone Shipments Rise 2.3% YoY in Q4 2025 Despite Memory Shortages, Boosting Apple LED Market (IDC)

idc q4 2025 Smartphone MarkeT

Global smartphone shipments recorded modest but meaningful growth in the fourth quarter of 2025, rising 2.3 percent year-over-year despite ongoing supply-side pressures, according to International Data Corporation (IDC). The market showed resilience in the face of a persistent memory chip shortage, logistical constraints, and cautious consumer spending in several regions. For the full year 2025, worldwide smartphone shipments reached 1.26 billion units, signaling a gradual recovery after periods of stagnation.

Premium devices played a major role in driving this growth, as consumers continued to prioritize high-end features and longer replacement cycles. Foldable smartphones gained wider acceptance, contributing to higher average selling prices and renewed interest in flagship models. Additionally, accelerated purchasing activity ahead of expected price increases helped lift shipments toward the end of the year, particularly in developed markets.

Apple and Samsung emerged as the strongest performers during the quarter, recording the highest growth rates among the top five smartphone brands. Apple led the global market for the third consecutive year, shipping 81.3 million units in Q4 2025 and capturing a 24.2 percent market share. The strong performance was fueled by demand for the iPhone 17 series and solid sales momentum in China and other key regions.

Samsung followed closely, shipping 61.2 million units and securing an 18.2 percent share of the global market, supported by a broad portfolio spanning premium and mid-range devices. Chinese manufacturers Xiaomi, Vivo, and Oppo rounded out the top five, maintaining competitive positions through aggressive pricing and strong distribution networks, particularly in emerging markets.