Google's mobile app is undergoing significant changes to improve user experience and sharing capabilities. These updates reflect Google's commitment to making its app more intuitive and user-friendly while expanding social features that allow users to share their curated content more effectively.
Public Collections Feature
Google is introducing a new public sharing option for collections in the Google app. Currently, users can only share collections through private links, but soon they'll be able to make their collections publicly viewable through their Google profiles. This integration with Google profiles will work similarly to how reviews and discussion contributions are currently displayed, giving users more control over their content visibility.
Current Beta Versions Testing New Features:
- Google App version 16.1.38.sa.arm64: Public collections feature
- Google App version 16.1.41: New UI layout and bottom bar
- Google App version 16.0.7: Circle to Search animations and themes
Enhanced Search Interface
The Circle to Search feature is receiving visual improvements with new entry and exit animations. The search bar will now glide up smoothly from the bottom of the screen and slide back down when closed, replacing the current expand-and-shrink animation. Additionally, Google is testing three new search bar themes: a standard white background, a color-matched palette, and a translucent background option.
New Search Bar Themes:
- White background (standard)
- Color-matched palette
- Translucent background
Streamlined Browser Experience
A significant UI improvement is coming to the app's in-browser experience, with frequently used tools being relocated to a more accessible bottom bar. This new layout moves important functions like sharing and collection tools from the crowded top toolbar to a cleaner, more thumb-friendly bottom position. The bottom bar intelligently hides itself during page scrolling to maximize screen real estate.
Implementation Timeline
These features are currently being tested in beta versions of the Google app (versions 16.1.38 and 16.1.41), suggesting a public release is imminent. The changes will affect how users interact with search results, Discover articles, and saved collections, though some features like Google Lens and Circle to Search will maintain their current interface for now.