Google accused of copying Apple’s Liquid Glass look – Android head denies it
Source: 9to5Mac
Background
Apple’s Liquid Glass user interface has received mixed reactions from its customers. Despite the controversy, Google appears to be drawing inspiration from the design.
After teasing a major year for Android, Google announced an Android event featuring a figure that looks strikingly similar to Apple’s Liquid Glass aesthetic.
Google’s Mascot Transformation
Google’s 3D robot mascot—informally known as “Bugdroid” before being officially named The Bot in 2024—was shown in a short video posted by Android head Samir Sumaidaie. In the video, The Bot changes from its usual green color to a transparent, glowing “liquid glass” appearance.
The internet reacted quickly. One user pleaded with Google not to copy Apple’s glass‑everything approach, and another X user shared an AI‑generated image of a liquid‑glass Android phone.
Samir responded, stating that the change was “not happening.” However, some observers remain skeptical, including Macworld’s David Price.
Reactions and Commentary
- The video shows the mascot pulling a cord, turning off the room’s light, and acquiring a glassy, transparent look reminiscent of the latest iOS, iPadOS, and macOS designs.
- 9to5Google’s Ben Schoon offers a balanced perspective between the two camps.
- Google has heavily invested in its Material Design language. The newest Material 3 Expressive evolution claims to improve user attention to key UI elements, as reported in a Material 3 leak.
- Google is expected to introduce more blur effects in Android 17 (source), but blur alone does not replicate Apple’s Liquid Glass design, which involves more than just UI blur.
Broader Context
The debate echoes previous discussions about design borrowing, such as Samsung’s adoption of Liquid Glass‑inspired elements in One UI 8.5 (see comparison).
Discussion
What’s your view? Is Google copying Apple’s design language, or is it simply evolving its own Material Design? Share your thoughts in the comments.