Google Enhances AI Mode with Quick Access Shortcut and Fresh Redesign on Android

Google Enhances AI Mode Accessibility and Interface Design

• New Shortcut on Android: As of version 16.16 (latest beta), a new shortcut for AI Mode has been added to the Search bar widget on Android, making it more accessible without needing to open the Google app or perform a search first.
• Default Setting: The shortcut will be set by default if you have AI Mode enabled, though users can revert to their previous shortcuts at any time. Other available shortcuts include Translate (text), Song Search, Weather, and more.
• iOS Precedent: This feature has been available on iOS for a few weeks, where it appears via a server-side update.
• UI Redesigns:
  • New Top Bar: Google is testing a new top bar design on Android that moves buttons to the right and replaces the centered Google logo with a multi-color 'G' at the left. This change aims for a cleaner, less cluttered look.
  • Desktop Web Improvements: The redesign looks particularly interesting on desktop web, where it includes a navigation rail with the company logo, history, and new chat options, diverging from the regular Search experience.
• Rollout Status: These changes are still in testing and not yet widely available to all users. Google is also experimenting with a third look that eliminates the fullscreen homepage entirely.