If you are an Android phone user you may have noticed that your call settings have changed without you prompting an update. Right?
Well this happened because Google has begun rolling out a sweeping redesign of its Phone app for Android users (version 186 and later), bringing a refreshed look and smarter features aimed at improving usability and stopping accidental calls from mis-taps and pocket interactions
WHAT’S CHANGING
The previous layout of separate tabs for Favorites, Recents, Contacts, and Voicemail has been replaced with a streamlined three-tab setup—Home, Keypad, and Voicemail.
The Home tab now features a carousel of favorite contacts at the top, followed by a chronological call log that treats each call individually, rather than grouping multiple calls from the same caller.
Redesigned incoming call interface
A key functional upgrade is the introduction of two new gesture options for answering or rejecting calls.
Users can now choose between a horizontal swipe (drag right to accept, left to decline) or single-tap buttons—a move designed to significantly reduce inadvertent call actions when users retrieve their phones from pockets or bags
Fresh visual style with material 3 expressive
This update is part of Google’s broader shift toward the Material 3 Expressive design language, visible in pill-shaped buttons, animated and “whimsical” rounded contact frames, and a more vibrant and playful aesthetic throughout the app
Improved layout for during-call controls
Once connected, users will notice pill-shaped buttons that morph when pressed—making actions like ending a call more intuitive. The end-call button, in particular, is now larger and easier to reach
Easier access to other settings and contacts
Navigation for contacts, settings, call history clearing, and help is now housed within a slide-out navigation drawer, accessible via the search bar on the Home tab
WHY IT MATTERS
Fewer accidental actions
The new horizontal swipe or tap options provide more reliable control during call handling—especially critical to prevent unintentional responses caused by bumping or tapping when the phone is stored.
Clearer history viewing
By showing each call separately, users can visually parse their call logs better—spotting patterns like repeated unanswered calls or work-related follow-ups more clearly.
A friendlier, more bespoke design
The Material 3 Expressive theme infuses more personality into the app, blending functionality with a modern, dynamic feel that aligns with Android 16 and beyond.
Unified interface for enhanced usability
Consolidating navigation and adding accessible controls via the drawer and Home tab reduces clutter and streamlines user experience.
Current availability and rollout
These updates have begun appearing for stable users on version 186+, though implementation varies by device and account, as much of the rollout is managed server-side
Beta testers, particularly those using Android 16, have seen the update sooner, and a broader rollout across Android devices is expected in the coming weeks
FEATURE DESCRIPTION
Navigation tabs Now: Home, Keypad, Voicemail (Favorites & Recents combined)
Call log display Each call logged separately for better clarity
Incoming call actions Choice between horizontal swipe or tap to answer/reject
Visual design Material 3 Expressive with playful elements and pill-shaped buttons
In-call layout Improved button shapes and spacing, with enhanced “End Call” control
Accessibility of settings Unified via navigation drawer accessible from the Home tab.
REACTION OVER THE DESIGN CHANGE.
Ngetich: "Have you noticed the news changes ukipiga simu ama ukipigiwa, how is the new feature. Najua mumechokora settings sana."
X user SMA Sithick said: "Google Phone Dialer finally gets a UI update… and instantly confuses my mom. 😂
She was used to swiping up/down to accept or decline calls. Now it’s left/right.
Recent calls shuffled, favorites hiding in a horizontal scroll.
Congrats Google, you just broke years of muscle memory with zero onboarding."
Austine: "Before the update, to receive or end a call you would slide vertically either top to bottom. They've changed that with the new update that you have to slide horizontally, left to right. Messes up your mind before getting used to it."
Safiqul Islam: "May I know why there are suddenly change phone call settings among Phones brands without any update?"It seems like there are auspicious things happening in the backend.Please give clarification on it."
Khizar: "Yes, I am facing this change, was wondering how this call settings changed without a personal interference. Now @BBCUrdu pointed out the factor behind it. It's socially and morally a corrupt practice."
HOW TO RESTORE YOUR FORMER PHONE CALL SETTINGS
➡️ Go to Play Store
➡️ Search 'Phone by Google '
➡️ You can find the updated of 'Phone by Google'
➡️ Uninstall the Update
➡️ Calls Display will come back to Normal
In summary, Google’s Phone app redesign arrives as a more user-centric, aesthetically engaging overhaul—addressing long-standing usability concerns like “pocket calls” while enhancing interaction clarity and visual appeal.
