What you need to know
In a notable development, Google is reportedly experimenting with a fresh user interface for its Phone app, particularly concerning how incoming calls are handled. This potential redesign may signal a departure from the familiar up-and-down swiping mechanism that users have grown accustomed to over the years.
An in-depth analysis of the app’s APK by Android Authority has unveiled intriguing details regarding this change. The testing was conducted on a device utilizing the Phone app’s beta version v166.0.735169223. The findings suggest a shift towards a more nostalgic side-to-side gesture for answering calls, reminiscent of earlier versions of the app.
The proposed interface features a pill-shaped bar positioned at the bottom of the screen, complete with a central icon that users can drag left to decline or right to accept an incoming call. Additionally, a “Message” option appears above this bar, providing a convenient way to send a text message to the caller if the user opts to decline the call.
While Google has maintained a consistent user interface for some time, this new approach may require users to adjust their habits, particularly those who have become accustomed to the traditional swipe-up method. The timeline for when this feature will be officially integrated into the app remains uncertain.
If implemented, this redesign could significantly alter the call-answering experience not only for Pixel devices but also for a range of Android phones that come pre-equipped with the Google Phone app. This includes devices from various manufacturers such as Motorola and Sony, potentially broadening the impact of this change across the Android ecosystem.
Last year, Google explored a different incoming call interface that mirrored Apple’s design, featuring the accept button on the right and the reject button on the left. This layout included color-coded buttons for easy recognition, although it was limited to a select group of devices and did not see widespread adoption.
As with many innovations, this new redesign may currently be in a testing phase, and it remains to be seen whether it will reach a broader audience. Android Central has reached out to Google for further clarification and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
