design update Archives

Winsage

April 27, 2026

Windows 11’s hidden modern Run dialog (Win+R) gets a slimmer design, but it’s still not rolling out

Windows Run, accessed via the Win + R shortcut, is being tested for a modern design update in newer preview builds of Windows 11. The updated version features a slimmer design similar to a floating search bar, with a new 'Run' icon and a centered text field. This modern variant will be optional, allowing users to switch back to the classic version if desired. Microsoft is also exploring additional advanced features for the modern Run dialog, which maintains comparable performance to the legacy version.

Winsage

April 23, 2026

Microsoft just made Windows 11’s Drag Tray for sharing files less annoying, and it actually works now

Microsoft has introduced the Drop Tray in Windows 11, replacing the previous Drag Tray to enhance file sharing. The Drop Tray features a more compact design and aims to minimize accidental openings while being easily dismissible. It is expected to roll out to all Windows 11 PCs by May as part of a set of reliability fixes. The new design encourages users to engage with it intentionally for file sharing, improving usability for those with desktop folders. The option to enable or disable the Drop Tray can now be found under Settings > System > Multitasking > Drop Tray.

Winsage

April 20, 2026

Microsoft is going after every part of Windows 11’s legacy UI in major design update

Microsoft plans to revamp various design elements of Windows 11, including the "Installing Windows 11" screen, which has been criticized for being functional but misaligned with the overall aesthetic. The design director indicated that while this screen is not a priority, it remains on their agenda. Windows 11 still contains legacy UI features, with some interfaces resembling Windows 8 and even Windows 3.1. Microsoft is migrating all Control Panel settings to the Windows 11 Settings app, but faces challenges due to the need to ensure compatibility with various network and printer devices and drivers. The company is taking a careful approach to this transition.

AppWizard

February 19, 2026

Google Keep gets ready to follow Drive and Docs with this new UI look

Google is updating the floating action button (FAB) design in Google Keep to align with its Material 3 Expressive design language. The new design will feature a larger, more visually striking FAB with an × symbol in a circular design, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. This update is currently in version 5.26.071.01 for Android, but has not yet been activated for users. Developers are preparing for the rollout, although some anticipated features may not be included in the final public release.

Winsage

December 7, 2025

Microsoft’s revamping Windows 11’s Run prompt, and already there are jokes about Copilot integration – alongside more serious worries

A significant update for the 'Run' dialog box in Windows 11 is forthcoming, featuring a modern design aligned with Microsoft's Fluent design language. The revamped Run box will display a list of recently used commands above the command line and include icons for applications. This update will not replace the existing version but will be an optional feature that users can enable through the Settings menu. Screenshots suggest the new Run box is ready for broader use, although it will not include AI enhancements at this time. The Run box can be accessed by pressing Windows key + R, allowing users to input various commands.

AppWizard

September 24, 2025

The Pixel Watch app gives Android users their long-awaited M3 Expressive makeover

The latest Material 3 Expressive update for the Pixel Watch app is being rolled out through a Play Store update, introducing a bolder design and a refreshed app icon. This update features a vertical, pill-shaped row highlighting key Pixel Watch features, including Fitbit, Personal Safety, Gemini, and Google Wallet. The app layout prioritizes essential features like Watch Faces and Tiles, with new containers and subtle line separators enhancing the user experience. The update began on September 24, and while it may take time for all devices to receive it, users can expect widespread changes throughout the week. The redesign enhances visuals and animations, complementing the circular face of the Pixel Watch. Wear OS 6 also introduces new watch faces and improved media controls.

AppWizard

June 18, 2025

Google Play Store gets colorful search tab with Material 3 Expressive

The Google Play Store is updating to version 46.5.19, incorporating the Material 3 Expressive design language, which includes a new color palette for category icons in the search tab and improved clarity in sections like Explore apps and Explore games. This update is part of a broader initiative that also affects other Google applications, such as Gmail, which will feature a new look with accent colors in the search bar, bottom navigation bar, and compose button. The compose button will have a more prominent font and updated icon, contributing to a modern card-style layout in Gmail.

AppWizard

June 3, 2025

Google Unveils Exciting Enhancements Coming to the Native Phone App for Android Users!

The latest update to the Phone by Google Android app includes larger text and images for callers, redesigned oval buttons, and the removal of the "Call from" text during incoming calls. The caller's phone number remains visible even after the call is answered, and the end button has been redesigned into a pill shape to reduce accidental presses. These changes aim to enhance usability and create a more intuitive user experience.

AppWizard

May 13, 2025

Google unveils the most massive Android redesign ever

Google's new design language for Android, called M3 Expressive, focuses on enhancing user experience through color, shape, size, motion, and containment. This design aims to create a deeper emotional connection between users and their devices. M3 Expressive is described as Google's most rigorously tested design system, developed through 46 rounds of iterations and feedback from over 18,000 participants. The design allows users to identify key interface components up to four times faster than the previous Material 3 design, effectively bridging generational gaps in usability. Google will unveil this design transformation at the I/O developer conference.

Winsage

December 23, 2024

Microsoft Edge drops yellow for folders (favourites), gets monoline transparent look

Microsoft Edge has updated to version 131.0.2903.112, introducing a design shift that replaces the yellow-themed favorites folders with a monoline, transparent aesthetic. This change has received mixed reactions from users, with some expressing ambivalence and frustration over the lack of customization options. A temporary workaround exists for reverting to the classic yellow folder icons by modifying the msedge.exe shortcut. Additionally, Microsoft Edge is set to introduce new features, including pop-ups to encourage users to set it as the default browser and enhancements like on-device AI capabilities and improved PDF reading with OCR technology.