Google has unveiled a significant redesign of its voice search feature for Android devices, aiming to enhance accessibility and elevate the user experience. This update is set to transform how users interact with voice search, making it more intuitive and visually appealing.
Key Features of the Redesigned Voice Search
The revamped voice search can be easily accessed through the homescreen widget, including the Pixel Launcher, or directly within any Google Search bar in the app. Here are some standout features of the new interface:
- A modernized design featuring a centered gradient ‘G’.
- A back button paired with a three-dot overflow menu that leads to Voice settings.
- Options to set languages, enable or disable spoken results, and select from a variety of voices, including Cosmo, Neso, Terra, and Cassini.
- An updated dark theme that enhances the visual experience.
Interface Changes
The previous interface, characterized by a four-dot waveform design, has been replaced with a more engaging setup. Users will now encounter a prompt stating “Listening…” alongside a friendly face illustration. Additionally, a vibrant four-color arc, reminiscent of features from AI Mode and Search Live, now appears beneath the transcribed query.
Song Search Improvements
Among the notable enhancements is a larger “Search a song” button, which directs users to a dedicated song search interface. This new user interface encourages users to “Play, Sing, Hum,” moving away from the earlier globe animation. For added convenience, a shortcut to Song Search history is now conveniently located in the top-right corner.
Availability
This update is being rolled out gradually with version 17.1 (stable) and 17.2 (beta) of the Google app on Android devices. However, it is still not widely accessible to all users at this time.
As users embrace these enhancements, there is growing anticipation that Google will also consider upgrading the text search interface to match the innovative features introduced in this voice search redesign.
