A new look for Google Chat: What's new and how can I update? Check out this quick guide

 A new look for Google Chat: What's new and how can I update? Check out this quick guide

Google has made significant changes to the Chat program, both in terms of design and usability. The redesigned version promises a more seamless experience for both the Google Chat standalone app and its interaction with Gmail.

Notable Modifications to the FAB Transformation and Bottom Bar Redesign: Redesigned are the recognizable bottom bar and "New" floating action button (FAB). The previous Chat and Spaces tabs have been replaced by tabs for Home, Direct Messages, Spaces, and Mentions, all housed in a pill-shaped container.

Circular Indicator: A circular indicator provides users with a visual hint by highlighting the active tab. The indicator makes navigating easier, however some animation between the tabs would have been nice.

Simplified Icons: To create a more organized look, icons for every tab are now shown without labels. Key information is easily accessible at the top of the screen, just below the search box.

Redesigned FAB: The floating action button (FAB) is now situated to the right of the pill-shaped container and is a rounded square that is marginally smaller.

Gmail's Floating Pill: The new pill-shaped container in Gmail sits above the current bottom bar, which is divided into three tabs.

Release and Updating Procedures

For iOS and web users, the updated design is currently accessible in Google Chat and Gmail. The update will roll out progressively for Android users based on their accounts.

To obtain the most recent information:

Look for the Google Chat app in the Play Store.

From the search results, tap on it to see if there have been any updates.

Press the update button to see if there is one available.

To access Gmail, use the Play Store search function and adhere to the same instructions.