In the world of Google, we are here with the top 4 news related to Google and its apps. Let’s go one by one in Google’s Tech Talk.
- Gboard app landscape mode major makeover
- Google Drive’s new homepage
- Google Message profile discovery
- Chrome New Tab gets Material You
Gboard app landscape mode major makeover:
The Gboard app will now automatically switch to a floating layout when you tilt your device into landscape mode. If you want it in portrait mode layout, just hold your phone upright again.
The new feature is still in beta (Gboard beta release v13.6.06.574113912 for Android), but it is expected to be rolled out soon on Gboard’s stable channel.
Google Drive’s new homepage:
Google Drive is getting a new homepage on the mobile app. The updated design is already rolling out to Android and iOS users of Google Workspace and personal accounts.
The new update includes a refreshed suggested view that “will allow you to see even more recommended files at once, such as those that have been recently opened, shared or edited,” Google said.
Google Message profile discovery:
Google has started rolling out the “Profile Discovery” for Google Messages apps for Android. This feature lets you create a profile with your name and photo.
At the moment, the new feature is only limited to beta users. For a better understanding, you can check the post (below) on X by Matthew Garbett.
@9to5Google Profiles in Google Messages are rolling out to beta. pic.twitter.com/8RCdaWH4jM
— Matthew Garbett (@LinkofHyrule89) November 14, 2023
By default, it includes your full name, your current profile avatar, or just a letter for the background. You will be able to find “Profile discovery,” under Messages Settings > Advanced once rolled out to your phone. It is a Google Account-level setting that you can turn on/off.
Chrome New Tab gets Material You:
Google Chrome’s New Tab Page is now getting a redesign. Like Gmail and Google Chat, the Chrome app now has a much thicker search bar on the New Tab Page. The hint text in the search bar is now bolder and the Google logo is also slightly smaller.
This Material You redesign of Chrome’s New Tab Page is still rolling out with version 119.
