New Material 3 Expressive Animations in Google Play Store: What's Changing? (2026)

The Play Store's new look might surprise you! Are you ready for the M3E transformation?

Android Authority's Edgar Cervantes has revealed some exciting changes coming to your Google Play Store experience. Prepare for a visual treat as the Material 3 Expressive animations begin to roll out.

Here's the scoop: The download progress rings around app icons are getting a stylish makeover, and the loading icon for page transitions is also being refreshed. But there's a catch! This update seems to be a slow rollout, so you might not witness the changes immediately.

Google has been gradually introducing Material 3 Expressive across Android and its apps, and the Play Store is the latest to receive this treatment. Some changes are subtle, like color adjustments, while others are more dramatic. For instance, app downloads now feature playful crinkled rings around icons, replacing the traditional circular progress indicators. And when you navigate to the Downloads page, a lively new loading animation greets you, embodying Google's bouncy design aesthetic.

But here's where it gets controversial: These changes were anticipated, as an APK teardown in October hinted at the expressive loading indicator. However, the question remains: Is this update worth the wait? Some users might appreciate the added flair, while others may find it a bit too playful for their taste.

And this is the part most people miss: The rollout has begun, but it's staged. So, if you're eagerly refreshing the Play Store and not seeing any changes, don't fret. It could take some time before it reaches your device, as Google often takes a gradual approach to updates.

Have you spotted the new animations yet? What are your thoughts on the M3E changes? Are they a fun refresh or a bit too much? Share your opinions below and let's discuss!

New Material 3 Expressive Animations in Google Play Store: What's Changing? (2026)
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