Feature request: Non-AGSL implementation for API < 33

[Micoder-dev]

Hi,

I love the AndroidLiquidGlass library. Currently, the library relies on AGSL, which limits its use to Android 13+ (API 33+).

I wanted to ask if there is any possibility to implement a similar Liquid Glass effect for lower APIs using OpenGL ES or any other non-AGSL approach. This would make the library usable on older devices.

Thanks for considering this!

[desugar-64]

It’s technically possible to bring the effect to pre-Android 13, but it’s a heavy lift.
Without AGSL you’d need an OpenGL ES path via SurfaceView or TextureView. SurfaceView is a separate layer (only fully above/below other UI, making overlays/transitions awkward), while TextureView requires a continuous render loop, increasing complexity and power use.
Animations/lifecycle also get harder. Given that, the payoff isn’t worth it. Android 13+ adoption is high, and effects this advanced need platform-backed AGSL for performance and reliability.
I built a similar pipeline in Imla, rendering the whole UI into a texture, applying effects, then drawing it back. It works, but you effectively replace the normal UI stack with a custom renderer, with brittle interop (input/animation sync, GL embeds, OEM quirks).