As AI Mode comes to more users around the world, Google is testing more prominent ways to surface the capability (and Live) on mobile.
The previous design placed a very prominent button for AI Mode in the Search bar with a multi-color rotating ring. The next line let you access Live, voice search, and Google Lens. As you scroll the Discover feed, the microphone and Lens appear in the field.
Google is now testing a new look that brings back the old Search bar. Below that you just get two large pill-shaped buttons for “AI Mode” and “Live” with text labels accompanying the icons. This is arguably a more straightforward and descriptive approach, especially if the Live icon isn’t common knowledge yet. However, it’s less vibrant from a color standpoint.
We’re seeing the AI Mode and Live shortcuts with the latest Google app beta. It’s not yet widely available.
Old vs. new
This access point joins the homescreen widget and Pixel Launcher shortcuts for AI Mode, while it’s also on the Chrome New Tab page on desktop web.
In other Google app developments, the “Activity” tab is testing new icons and names. There are two designs: “Your space” and “Library.”
Google app 16.30 (currently in beta) also removes the Assistant “Routines” homescreen widget.
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