Google Phone App Overhaul Sparks User Backlash
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A sweeping redesign of the Google Phone app,widely known as the Google Dialer, has unexpectedly landed on numerous Android devices, leaving many users displeased.The alterations are part of Google’s broader rollout of its material 3 design language, and the changes have been implemented without requiring users to manually update the application. While Google presents the update as a modernization effort, the response from the Android community has been overwhelmingly negative.
What’s Changed in the New design?
The updated Phone app introduces substantial visual and functional shifts. Previously, the app separated “Recents” and “Favourites” into distinct sections, but this division has been removed. both lists are now combined into a single “Home” tab. The keypad, formerly situated on the main screen, has been moved to a separate section featuring notably larger and more rounded buttons. Access to Contacts has also been altered; it is no longer immediately visible but is now accessed through a slide-out menu linked to the search bar.
Furthermore, the in-call interface has been adjusted. Answering or declining incoming calls is now accomplished with a horizontal swipe, mirroring the gesture used on iPhones. However, users retain the option to revert to the traditional tap-to-answer method within the app’s settings. During calls, the controls have been redesigned with a pill-shaped layout, prominently featuring a luminous red “End Call” button.
Why Are Users Unhappy With the Redesign?
The primary point of contention appears to be the abrupt nature of the change. Many Android users reported waking up to the new interface without initiating any updates. Social media platforms have been flooded with complaints,with users describing the new buttons as “oversized” and the overall layout as “cluttered”. Several individuals expressed that the redesign slows down their typical phone usage due to their familiarity with the previous interface. Online,numerous memes have appeared documenting users’ confusion.
“the phone app used to be perfect,” one user commented online. “Now the buttons are blocky, oversized, and frankly, ugly.” Another user wrote, “This design is terrible. Please revert to the older version; this update was forced upon us.” A recurring criticism centers on the conspicuous red “End Call” button, which some users find excessively noticeable compared to the more subtle design of its predecessor.
Can You Revert to the Previous Layout?
Currently, Google does not offer an official method to restore the prior Phone app design. Though,users can disable the swipe-to-answer gesture by navigating to Settings,then Incoming Call gestures,and selecting the tap-to-answer option. For those strongly preferring the original layout, uninstalling the app update through the play Store will revert to the version that originally came with the device. Be aware that this also means foregoing the latest bug fixes and features.
Owners of OnePlus, Oppo, and Realme smartphones have an alternative: they can download the ODialer app from the Play Store, which provides a more conventional dialer experience. other Android users can explore alternative phone dialer apps available on the Play Store.
| Feature | Old Design | new Design (Material 3) |
|---|---|---|
| Recents & Favourites | Separate Tabs | Unified “Home” Tab |
| Keypad Location | On Main Screen | Separate Section |
| Contacts Access | Directly Accessible | Slide-Out Menu |
| Call Answering | Tap to Answer | Swipe or Tap (configurable) |
did You Know? Google regularly updates its apps with new features and design changes, but the swift and unprompted rollout of this Phone app redesign was unusual, contributing to the user frustration.
Pro Tip: Before uninstalling updates, consider backing up your call history and contacts to ensure no data is lost during the reversion process.
The Evolution of Smartphone Dialers
The smartphone dialer, once a simple numeric keypad, has evolved into a complex dialogue hub. Beyond basic calling functions, modern dialers now integrate features like caller ID, call blocking, voicemail transcription, and even spam detection. This evolution reflects the increasing importance of smartphones in daily life and the need for a seamless and feature-rich communication experience. According to Statista, the global smartphone user base is expected to reach over 6.9 billion in 2024,making changes to core apps like the Phone app significantly impactful.
What are your thoughts on the new Google Phone app design? Do you prefer the updated look, or do you miss the previous interface? Share your opinions in the comments below!
