In a significant update for Android users, Google has officially rolled out a major redesign of its Phone app. The overhaul, which is part of the company's broader transition to the Material 3 Expressive (M3) design language, is aimed at creating a cleaner, more intuitive, and visually appealing interface. The changes are more than just cosmetic; they introduce new functionalities and a more streamlined user experience designed to make phone calls simpler and more efficient.
One of the most notable changes is the merger of the "Favourites" and "Recent" tabs into a single, unified "Home" tab. This new tab provides a more integrated view of your contacts and call history, with starred contacts now displayed in a horizontal carousel at the top, making it easier to access the people you call most often. Below this carousel is your complete call log, creating a single, convenient hub for all your calling needs.
The keypad, a central part of any phone app, has also been completely redesigned. It is no longer a separate tab but has been moved to a central position with a sleek, rounded, and sheet-like appearance. This new design is more modern and makes it easier to navigate. Additionally, the contact list has been removed from the main navigation bar. It is now accessible through a navigation drawer from the search bar, a change that further contributes to the app's clean and minimalist aesthetic.
Perhaps the most significant change from a functional standpoint is the new method for answering calls. The traditional swipe-up or swipe-down gesture has been replaced with a more modern horizontal swipe or a single-tap option. This change is designed to prevent accidental call responses, a common frustration for many users. While this may take some getting used to for long-time Android users, it is a deliberate move by Google to improve the reliability of the app's core function.
Perhaps the most significant change from a functional standpoint is the new method for answering calls. The traditional swipe-up or swipe-down gesture has been replaced with a more modern horizontal swipe or a single-tap option. This change is designed to prevent accidental call responses, a common frustration for many users. While this may take some getting used to for long-time Android users, it is a deliberate move by Google to improve the reliability of the app's core function.
The redesign also includes a host of smaller but impactful visual changes, such as new, expressive animations and a more cohesive design language that aligns the Phone app with the rest of Google's suite of applications. While the changes are part of a server-side rollout, users who prefer the older interface can reverse the updates by simply uninstalling them through the Google Play Store, giving them control over their user experience.
