Google Introduces Three Major Updates to Help Android Apps Adapt Across Screen Sizes and Device Types
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Google kicked off I/O 2025 with a clear message that Android apps need to work on more screens with less friction. Developers now get three key tools to make that happen.
First, Google rolled out an update to its Compose Adaptive Layouts library. Version 1.2 (alpha) adds layout strategies like “Reflow” and “Levitate.” These handle dynamic resizing as the window changes, which is helpful for tablets, foldables, and desktops. The update also improves layout previews in Android Studio and adds emulator resizing support. Developers can now test and see how apps respond to different screen widths and device types before shipping code.
Next, Jetpack Navigation 3.0 (also alpha) launched with better support for multi-pane layouts. Google cut down the boilerplate for building apps with complex navigation flows across larger screens. The update also brings better mouse and trackpad support, including right-click context menus, making desktop-style input feel more natural.
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The final upgrade puts AI directly on users’ devices. ML Kit now includes Gemini Nano, a small model that runs locally and handles text summaries, proofreading, rewriting, and image descriptions. It works offline, preserves user privacy, and doesn’t rely on the cloud. Google plans to expand its features with support for more languages and image+text inputs.
Android 16 will require apps targeting SDK 36 to support flexible layouts for screens 600dp and larger. Developers can still opt out, but Google made it clear: adaptive design isn’t optional anymore.
The updates are live in alpha now and mark a major shift. Android apps must now shape themselves to every screen and think a little smarter too.
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