Hold onto your hats, Android users – Telegram just shook things up with a bold redesign that’s diving headfirst into the world of Liquid Glass. But here’s where it gets controversial: not everyone’s thrilled about the change. After teasing us with snippets of this new look last year, Telegram’s latest Android update (v12.4.0) is now rolling out widely via the Play Store, bringing a major overhaul that’s hard to ignore. This isn’t just a tweak – it’s a full embrace of Liquid Glass aesthetics, building on the October/November 2025 update that first introduced subtle hints of this design language.
So, what’s new? Picture a sleek, four-tab bottom bar that feels eerily reminiscent of iOS, complete with transparent elements that shine brightest in the app’s light mode. While it’s not a carbon copy of Apple’s design, the inspiration is unmistakable – and it’s more than just about transparency. These tabs (Chats, Contacts, Settings, and Profile) stick around as you scroll, giving the app a cohesive, modern feel. And this is the part most people miss: the hamburger menu is gone for good. Instead, features like “New Group” now live in a three-dot overflow menu at the top right of the chats screen.
This redesign follows Telegram’s earlier rollout of Liquid Glass on iOS in January, but the Android version has sparked mixed reactions. Some users are loving the fresh look, while others are less than impressed (just take a peek at the Reddit threads). Here’s the burning question: Is this a step forward in design innovation, or a misstep that alienates loyal users?
Let’s not forget the bigger picture. Telegram’s move comes at a time when Android itself is evolving rapidly. From Honor and Nothing becoming 2025’s fastest-growing phone brands to Google teasing AirDrop-like features, the ecosystem is buzzing with change. And with rumors of ChromeOS being phased out by 2034, it’s clear that Android’s future is anything but static.
So, what do you think of Telegram’s Liquid Glass makeover? Is it a welcome refresh, or a design choice that misses the mark? Let’s debate it in the comments – and while you’re at it, be sure to follow Ben on Twitter/X, Threads, Bluesky, and Instagram for more tech insights.
FTC: We use income-earning auto affiliate links. More details here.
