Android 16 may adopt iOS-like app settings preferences

Google is exploring several new features for its next major OS upgrade, but looks like it may copy some of the capabilities from iOS. A new input hints that Android 16 may adopt iOS-like app settings preferences for an easier user experience.

App Setting Preferences in iOS refers to the permissions for individual apps that users can configure or change from the Settings. It enables users to customize the app behavior and access to limited features of the device.

Every app has its own settings interface independent of Android Settings. It becomes difficult to check every application and alter its settings as per the device’s needs. Hence, Android 16 may introduce an app setting preferences interface.

The new software version already has SettingsPreferenceService API. It has to be implemented by apps that contribute to the Android Settings surface. Simply put, apps can select preferences to expose to Android Settings and choose whether these preferences can be read-only or writable.

On the flip side, app developers can tag certain preferences as DEEPLINK_ONLY – one that can’t be altered directly but can lead you to the preference’s settings via a direct link. EXPECT_POST_CONFIRMATION is another way, where the user can revert these changes.

Android 16 may adopt iOS-like app settings preferences (Image Credits: AndroidAuthority)

NO_DIRECT_ACCESS or NO_SENSITIVITY means that preferences can’t be changed without any direct consent. Developers can further provide a short description of each preference for users’ understanding.

If more apps adopt this new Android 16 API, then users can easily change settings for an individual app, as they can find these settings within the Android Settings app.

(source)