Google lifts limit on Contacts widget and introduces freeform Windows to Android, drawing inspiration from Samsung DeX
Top 3 Key Points:
- Google is removing the seven-contact limit on the home screen Contacts widget.
- Freeform Windows feature is coming to Android, inspired by Samsung’s DeX.
- Android’s new windowing system will enhance multitasking with resizable app windows.
Google is making changes to its Contacts app by lifting the restriction on the home screen Contacts widget. Previously, users could only view up to seven of their favorite contacts in this widget, but this limit will soon be removed.
According to Android Authority contributor Assemble Debug, who tested version 4.40.48.672619802 of the Google Contacts app, users can now add more than seven contacts to their widget. During testing, 16 contacts were successfully added, and the widget now features a scroller, allowing users to easily swipe through their favorite contacts. Additionally, the widget can be resized to cover more of the home screen if needed.
A notable improvement is that contact names will now appear in the widget, rather than just the avatars, enhancing ease of use. This change addresses a common user expectation and will roll out soon to all users.
Inspired by Samsung DeX
Samsung’s DeX feature, popular among Galaxy users, offers a desktop-like experience on mobile devices, making multitasking more efficient. Although DeX is a Samsung-specific feature, Google is bringing similar functionality to all Android devices through freeform app windows. Google introduced “Desktop Windowing” in the Android 15 Developer Preview, specifically aimed at tablets.
This new feature allows users to freely resize app windows, similar to systems like ChromeOS and macOS. Users will be able to open multiple instances of the same app, and instead of full-screen apps, windows will float on the desktop. You can maximize or minimize them, making multitasking smoother and more flexible.
To use this feature, users can drag the app window handle or use a keyboard shortcut: Meta Key + Ctrl + Down Arrow. This system is also expected to be available for foldable Android phones, which benefit from larger screens.
Though not all apps may work well with this feature right away, especially in landscape mode, Google is encouraging developers to optimize their apps for this new windowing experience. They plan to address any display issues by adjusting the app’s user interface for better scaling.
With these updates, Android users will have a more customizable and productive experience, improving both communication and multitasking capabilities.