Google Play Store’s new UI test and launch of standalone ‘Google Gemini’ app for iPhone
Google Play Store Testing New Bottom Sheet UI for App Listings
Google Play Store constantly experiments with user interface (UI) enhancements to improve the overall experience. Recently, it has started testing a new design when users open an app listing through external links, like a URL shared via another app.
What’s New in the UI Update?
Traditionally, when you click on a Play Store link from an external source, it opens the app listing in a full-screen view. The new test version, however, introduces a “bottom sheet” interface that offers two different styles:
- Detailed Bottom Sheet: This version displays the app information, screenshots, ratings, and an “Install” button, all within a bottom sheet panel.
- Quick View with Full Details Option: This variant shows limited app information with an option to “View Full Details,” which, when tapped, opens the full-screen version of the app listing.
The bottom sheet UI also includes a dismiss button (an “X” icon) in the top-right corner. Tapping it will close the panel and return you to your previous screen. Unlike the previous design where a simple back swipe took you directly back to the app you were using, this new approach adds an extra step, potentially requiring a second swipe to return to the original app.
Standalone ‘Google Gemini’ App Spotted on iPhone with Gemini Live Access
Google’s AI product, Gemini, initially integrated into the Google (Search) app, is now available as a standalone application for iPhone. This move is part of Google’s efforts to expand Gemini’s presence and make it more accessible to iOS users.
Features of the Standalone ‘Google Gemini’ App
- Dedicated App with Home Screen Icon: The new app, named “Google Gemini,” adds a shortcut directly on your iPhone’s home screen, making it easier to access without opening the main Google app.
- Access to Gemini Live: The most notable feature of the standalone app is the ability to use Gemini Live. This live activity feature allows users to interact with Gemini even when they are using other apps, offering a seamless AI experience.
- Direct Access Through Widgets: Previously, users needed to switch to the “Gemini” tab inside the Google app. However, the recent update has introduced a widget that provides a direct shortcut to Gemini, enhancing user convenience.
Currently, there is only one report of the standalone app being downloadable in the Philippines. The App Store listing shows the app is unavailable in regions like the US, suggesting Google is conducting limited testing before a wider release.
Comparison with Current Google App Gemini Experience
The standalone app’s functionality is similar to accessing Gemini via the Google app or the web version at gemini.google.com. However, Google has yet to update the UI for the iPhone experience to match its Android counterpart. By making Gemini a standalone app, Google may be able to push updates more frequently, similar to how Google Assistant operates independently on iOS.
What to Expect Next
The Play Store’s UI test and the launch of the standalone Google Gemini app on iPhone are part of Google’s ongoing efforts to improve user interaction and experience across platforms. The new Play Store bottom sheet UI aims to streamline navigation, while the standalone Gemini app provides quicker access to Google’s AI capabilities.
With these updates, Google is making strategic moves to enhance user experience and ensure consistent access to its services, regardless of the device or platform. Expect further improvements and broader releases in the coming months as testing progresses and user feedback is integrated.