Google app on Android devices Archives

AppWizard

January 19, 2026

Google App Revamps Voice Search Feature on Android

Google has redesigned its voice search feature for Android devices to improve accessibility and user experience. Key features include a modernized design with a centered gradient ‘G’, a back button with a three-dot overflow menu for voice settings, options for language and voice selection, and an updated dark theme. The new interface replaces the previous four-dot waveform design with a prompt stating “Listening…” and a friendly face illustration, along with a vibrant four-color arc beneath the transcribed query. Enhancements include a larger “Search a song” button that leads to a dedicated song search interface, encouraging users to “Play, Sing, Hum,” and a shortcut to Song Search history. The update is being gradually rolled out with version 17.1 (stable) and 17.2 (beta) of the Google app on Android devices, but is not yet widely accessible. There is anticipation for a potential upgrade to the text search interface to align with the new voice search features.

AppWizard

October 8, 2025

Chrome WebView’s top bar stuck in light mode when using Google app on Android

Users of the Google app on Android devices are experiencing an issue where the address bar remains white, disrupting the dark mode experience. This problem is specific to the Google app, as other applications like Chrome and WebView maintain their dark aesthetics. Users have reported that the white address bar appears only when accessing links through the Google app and disappears when using Gmail or Chrome directly. Troubleshooting efforts, including clearing caches and uninstalling updates, have not resolved the issue. The problem is linked to the embedded browser experience within the Google app, and suggestions to enable dark mode through Chrome settings do not affect the in-app browser. The current workaround is to manually open links in Chrome or another browser.

AppWizard

April 14, 2025

Google Removes Assistant Settings from Android App: Here’s What’s Changing

Google is removing direct access to Assistant settings from the Google app on Android devices as part of a strategy to transition users to its AI-powered platform, Gemini. Users will now need to use the Google Home app or system settings to manage Assistant preferences. This change was implemented in Google App version 16.12, where the Google Assistant option was removed from the profile menu settings. Features previously accessible through the Google app, such as routines and voice settings, will now require navigation through the new methods. The rollout of Gemini is occurring in phases, starting with Pixel smartphones.

AppWizard

August 20, 2024

Google may remove dedicated search button from its Android app – Times of India

Google is considering removing the search button from the Google app on Android devices, as indicated by an APK teardown of the latest beta version. This potential redesign may be influenced by user interaction data suggesting low engagement with the search button. Additionally, Google is introducing offline maps support for Wear OS smartwatches in Google Maps, allowing users to navigate without a cellular or Wi-Fi connection by downloading specific regions.

AppWizard

August 19, 2024

Google tests some questionable changes in the Search app

Google is considering removing the Search shortcut from the bottom bar of the Google app on Android devices, as indicated by an analysis of the app's APK. This potential change could affect user navigation, as the Search button is currently located between the Home and Saved buttons. Visual evidence from the APK suggests various configurations that exclude the Search button, while the search bar remains accessible at the top of the app. It is unclear if these changes will be implemented, and users are advised to await official announcements.

AppWizard

May 24, 2024

Google app gets a dedicated notifications tab on Android

Google has enhanced its app on Android devices with a new feature - a dedicated notifications tab that curates alerts such as search updates, weather forecasts, sports scores, and entertainment news. Users can easily manage and navigate through these notifications, providing a more detailed view compared to the standard Android system-level history. The feature is currently exclusive to the beta version but will be introduced to the wider public soon.