Google app Archives

Winsage

April 15, 2026

Google App for Windows Is Officially Here (Available in Japanese)

Google launched its "Google" app for Microsoft's Windows operating system on April 14, 2026, after an experimental phase in the "Search Labs" program. The app is designed for English-speaking users globally and features a search bar activated by [Alt + Space], allowing users to search local files, installed applications, Google Drive, and the web. It includes an AI-powered "AI Mode" and supports "Google Lens." Although the interface is in English, the app can be installed in a Japanese environment and recognizes Japanese input, providing accurate responses.

AppWizard

April 14, 2026

Leaked ‘Your Day’ feature for Gemini looks like a proactive, personal addition

Google is developing a feature called "Your Day" for its Gemini platform, which aims to enhance user experience by creating a personalized "proactive feed" using AI's Personal Intelligence capabilities. This feature was discovered in the Google app's code and is designed to provide users with an overview of their day by integrating data from connected apps like Gmail, Photos, and YouTube. "Your Day" will offer tailored responses based on individual user information, allowing users to access relevant photos, emails, and project deadlines. The feature is optional, giving users control over the level of personalization.

AppWizard

April 13, 2026

Google App Replaces Pixel Launcher Search: What You Need to Know

Google has replaced the Pixel Launcher search interface with the search experience from the Google app, leading to user dissatisfaction due to the omission of features like app search and shortcuts to frequently used applications. The new interface lacks the modern design and convenience that users expected. Users can still access the old Pixel Launcher search through the app grid or by enabling a specific feature, but this may disrupt their established habits. Many are hoping for a future update that could improve the Google app's search interface and restore the previous features.

AppWizard

April 7, 2026

Gemini could finally catch up to other Google apps with this visual upgrade

Google is exploring the integration of wallpaper-based theming within its Gemini feature in the Google app, aiming to unify the visual experience across applications and phase out the white-and-blue color scheme. The experimentation is underway with version 17.12.51 of the Google app, where users have noticed changes in the Gemini overlay that adapts to the user's wallpaper. The overlay now features a subtly tinted bar and a darker button for Gemini Live, reflecting the system's theme. However, other elements like button shapes remain unchanged. The main Gemini app still displays its traditional colors, indicating that the rollout of the theming feature is in its early stages. Insights from an APK teardown suggest potential future features, but some may not reach public release.

AppWizard

March 31, 2026

Gemini app rolls out new glow on Android and moves Temporary chat

The Gemini overlay on Android has been updated to include a new glow effect that extends to the screen's perimeter, featuring a predominant blue hue with hints of red, green, and yellow. The Temporary chat feature on the web has been redesigned, with its icon moved to the top-right corner for better visibility and usability. Users must return to the homepage to initiate a Temporary chat while in a conversation. These updates are being rolled out to all Gemini accounts on the web, with limited availability on mobile devices. A force stop of the Google app may expedite the rollout of the glow effect on Android devices.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

Google Tests Unified Gemini Interface On Android

Google is experimenting with a streamlined interface for its Gemini assistant on Android devices, aiming to reduce clutter and enhance consistency. The redesigned sidebar includes a dedicated Settings & Help section, organizes key items like Scheduled Actions and Notebooks, and features collapsible sections for tidiness. The header has been compacted to create a more spacious typing area. The app now prominently displays the last-used extension, enhancing transparency about the tools utilized for user queries. The model switcher has been relocated to the app header, decluttering the input area and defaulting to the “Fast” model for most queries. These changes are part of a broader effort to unify the Gemini experience across app and web platforms, with the Google app version 17.11.54 beta indicating a phased rollout of these features.

AppWizard

March 25, 2026

A cleaner, unified Gemini interface could be coming to your Android phone

Google is testing enhancements for the Gemini Android app to replicate the user-friendly interface of its web version, including a "Settings & help" menu. The latest beta release, version 17.11.54, features a user interface similar to the mobile web version, with planned additions like "Scheduled actions," "My stuff," and a new Notebooks section. Gemini will also show the last-used extension in the query header and may relocate the model switcher to the app header to declutter the input field. Updated icons for the feedback row are also being introduced.

AppWizard

March 19, 2026

Google is quietly testing a Discover tab in Gemini, alongside a host of UI changes

The latest beta version of the Google app (17.10.54.sa.arm64) has introduced several updates to the Gemini user interface, including a new "Discover" tab in the sidebar that currently leads to an empty page. The sidebar may be redesigned for a more streamlined layout, featuring a settings shortcut at the bottom. Gemini's "Thinking" responses will now be presented in a bottom sheet format for improved clarity. The sidebar serves as a navigation tool, allowing users to switch between chats and access app sections, with some variations tested appearing unfinished. One version successfully loads chat history and includes minor UI adjustments that align with the web interface design. The Gemini overlay has also been refined to separate input and responses, adding a prominent close button and repositioning the voice output feature. Not all features from the APK teardown may be included in the public release.

BetaBeacon

March 6, 2026

Google isn’t waiting for a settlement — the 30 percent Android app store fee is dead

Google plans to reduce app store fees in the US, UK, and European Economic Area to 20 percent or less by June 30th.

AppWizard

February 28, 2026

Six Google Apps Emerge As Irreplaceable On Android

Many Android users seek alternatives to default applications, but six Google apps are deemed indispensable due to their speed, reliability, and integration. Google Keep allows for quick note-taking with features like labels, checklists, and real-time syncing across devices, boasting over 1 billion installs. The Google app serves as a central hub for various functions, providing seamless integration that enhances the Android experience. Google Maps excels as a navigation and discovery tool, with over 10 billion installs and features like offline maps and user-generated content. Android Auto offers a user-friendly interface for driving, becoming a standard feature in new vehicles. Google Photos backs up images effortlessly, with over 5 billion installs, and provides powerful search capabilities. NotebookLM allows users to input documents and web clippings for research, functioning as a research assistant. These six apps stand out for their unique combination of speed, scale, and integration, making them essential for Android users.