Google has rolled out a significant interface overhaul for its hands-free voice search on Android devices, demonstrating that even subtle refinements can lead to substantial user experience improvements.
For years, voice search has been a reliable, albeit often visually understated, workhorse within the Android ecosystem, proving indispensable in situations like driving or cooking where hands are occupied. While its functionality remained dependable, its visual presentation frequently felt like an afterthought.
Google is now introducing a redesign aimed at delivering a modernized, hands-free experience for Android users.
This update underscores Google's commitment to an "evolving" user experience, powered by its underlying advanced intelligence. The new interface is more intuitive, modernizes the hands-free interaction, and is fully integrated with Android's next-generation AI.
A Long-Serving Feature Bows Out
After years of service, the distinctive disembodied face is being phased out, replaced by a redesigned voice search interface that better aligns with contemporary design principles. Google's new Gemini-powered interface replaces the face with a microphone icon. Below the microphone, a prompt reads "Ask anything," situated above a colored arc.
Alan Friedman, reporting for PhoneArena, described the old face as a "weird-looking disembodied head." He noted that the new aesthetic accompanies Gemini's replacement of Google Assistant as the default assistant for Android users.
This update is part of a broader shift in how Google's apps, particularly on Android, operate. Gemini is being strategically integrated across various facets, making Android appear smarter. Despite complaints regarding Google's data collection practices, some users believe this gives Android an edge in intelligence over Apple's Siri.
One Update, Multiple Access Points
Information gathered by PhoneArena indicates this new interface update is accessible through the following methods:
- Tapping the microphone icon in the Google Search widget on the home screen
- Using the "Hey Google" prompt when hands-free is enabled
- Opening the Google app and tapping the microphone icon
- Via the persistent search bar in the Pixel Launcher (for Pixel users)
Tapping the microphone activates a new "Listening..." text, prompting you to speak.
Friedman also reported that when he initiated voice search from the search bar microphone, the disembodied face still appeared, suggesting the rollout is not yet complete.
The update also includes changes to the look of song search. The text remains the same but is styled differently. Previously, the phrase "Play, sing, hum" was written on a single line. With this new interface change, each word now occupies its own line, as reported by Android Authority.
Rollout and Availability
As with many Google features, Pixel users are expected to receive this update first, while iOS users are typically last in line, or may not get it at all. However, Friedman's report shows that currently, only two versions of the Google app feature this update.
- Version 17.1 of the stable Google app
- Version 17.2 of the beta Google app
Users enrolled in beta testing should update their app to version 17.2, while stable users may get the update via an upgrade to 17.1. Reports note that not all users on these app versions are experiencing the interface makeover. This suggests Google, as is typical with similar updates, is conducting a silent, staged rollout.
This transition aligns with Google's new approach of making Android smarter through its Gemini-infused ecosystem. Although still in its early stages, this marks one of many subtle yet significant updates planned by Google.
