Google Maps redesign

  Google Maps bottom bar with fewer tabs : A new design on Android phones

In recent years, Google Maps has felt like it’s an afterthought to Google. As Apple Maps continues to improve with better navigation, cleaner transit layers, and better information, Google Maps has lagged. That’s why we’re thrilled about the redesigned Google Maps app that Google showcased at Google I/O 2024. Google’s announcement about the latest Maps travel features included a mention of how the app is getting a “cleaner home screen.” At I/O 2024, we get a glimpse at the new Google Maps bottom bar. Google is finally improving the design of Google Maps, which is slowly rolling out to some users with Android smartphones. This new version of Google Maps brings a new bottom bar with three tabs. This new design could be available for some Galaxy smartphone and tablet users. Other Galaxy users might get it in the next few weeks.

Google said a “cleaner home screen with fewer tabs” is coming. At the moment, we have Explore, Go, Saved, Contribute, and Updates. And just in time for the warmer weather, you’ll start seeing new design updates which give Maps a fresh new look. The redesigned Google Maps update includes a cleaner home screen with fewer tabs, new pin colours, and a generally simplified interface. Basically, there’s a new Google Maps bottom navigation bar with three new tabs: Explore, You, and Contribute, paring things down from the five we currently have, Explore, Go, Saved, Contribute and Updates.

The new version (version 11.127.x) of Google Maps simplifies the bottom bar for all users. Instead of five tabs, it has just three: Explore, You, and Contribute. It still has all the functionality of the older version of the app, as the You tab includes features that were earlier listed in the Go, Saved, and Updates tabs. In the You tab, there is no search bar. Notifications and Business Messages can be accessed from the top right corner of the screen. The Go section from the old version of the app is now named Saved Trips and resides in the You tab.

During “The latest in Material Design” I/O 2024 session, the Google Maps team demoed how “they ship features to production using Material for Compose.”  Explore and Contribute haven’t really changed in functionality. Explore still helps you navigate and discover new places and attractions, and Contribute lets you offer your own suggestions, reviews, and photos. You leverages the same icon as Saved, but now includes the Notifications feed that was previously shown in Updates. Located at the centre, this is presumably where you find Your lists. Go, which showed frequent traps, is no longer in the bottom bar, which doesn’t use a tall design to show as much map content as possible. The You tab now takes over for Saved places, but also consolidates the Notifications feed, which used to be under Updates and showed reactions and views to your reviews and comments.

 It’s great to see a simplified interface. Like most people, we never used most of the tabs on Google Maps. There are also lots of other quality-of-life features that we’re excited about. There’s a new sheet-based interface, meaning you can see and interact with things on the map without it taking over the whole screen while still getting more information at once. The map is also visible when using different app functions, so you don’t constantly need to switch between tabs while navigating. It’ll be easier to close sheets, plus there’s a redesigned search field for directions and improved placement of transport options so that options for driving, transit, walking, cycling, and ride-hailing are at the bottom of the screen. Google is also exploring a new Arrival card design.

These changes follow Google’s other recent change in March that made creating and sharing lists better, with a particular focus on travel. You can create a new list with the aptly named “New List” button on the Saved tab, add a place to your list, and always see it pinned on your map. It’ll be organized chronologically. You can move items up and down to create a ranked list to help you visit places, similar to an itinerary. You can also link to content from your social media channels, like with Yelp, to help remind you why something is on your list.

Google Maps still doesn't use the Material You design, and Google might be too cautious. The app is used by billions of users worldwide, and a sudden design change could confuse many users. Google announced this new design in March and has now started rolling it out to some users worldwide. It’s not clear when this will begin rolling out for all.