Google is embarking on a transformative journey with its user interface, beginning with the rollout of a fullscreen account switcher in its first-party applications, starting with Gmail for Android. This new design marks a significant shift from the previous overlay style, which occupied a substantial portion of the screen while allowing users to glimpse their prior interactions in the background.
Enhanced User Experience
The fullscreen account switcher takes center stage, fully enveloping the display. It employs Dynamic Color theming to create a visually appealing background, complemented by a simple ‘X’ in the top-right corner for easy closure. Users can also exit the switcher by navigating back or selecting an account.
Upon entering the switcher, users are greeted with their email address prominently displayed at the center, accompanied by a large profile image and a friendly “Hi, [name]!” This welcoming touch is followed by a conspicuous “Manage your Google Account” button, ensuring that essential actions are easily accessible.
The interface further simplifies account management with a collapsible list under “Switch account,” providing shortcuts to “Add another account” and “Manage accounts on this device.” In line with previous iterations, Gmail continues to display a “Storage used” line, while the page concludes with links to the “Privacy Policy” and “Terms of service.”
While the fullscreen design aligns with the web UI for cross-device consistency, it raises questions about the necessity of such a comprehensive interface for what is typically a quick action. Many users may find that account switching does not warrant an entire screen takeover.
Nevertheless, this approach enhances user-friendliness by making the process more explicit. As the previous account switcher already occupied a significant portion of the screen, this evolution may feel like a natural progression. However, the implications for apps that utilize the account menu for settings and shortcuts—such as the Play Store, Gemini, and the Google Search app—remain uncertain. The fullscreen menu could disrupt the continuity of key navigation elements.
For power users, the familiar swipe gesture remains intact; they can continue to switch accounts swiftly by swiping up or down on their circular profile picture, a feature introduced in 2019.
Currently, this new user interface is being observed in Gmail for Android, specifically in version 2024.11.24.x, although it has yet to be widely deployed across all users. As of now, Gmail is the sole application showcasing this design change.
