Adjusting to the Latest Google Phone Updates with Ease

The latest update to the Google Phone app has brought the Material 3 Expressive design to its interface, introducing significant changes to its overall layout and functionality. The update features a 'slide-to-answer' gesture for incoming calls and a combined 'Favourites' and 'Recents' tab. While these changes are part of Google's efforts to streamline and modernize the user experience, not all users have been enthusiastic about the modifications.

Understanding the Changes

One of the key alterations involves the relocation of the dialer icon to the bottom menu, requiring users to use the search function or 'View contacts' option to access their contacts directly. This shift has been polarizing for users accustomed to the original layout and functionality of the Google Phone app.

The update further integrates a slide-to-answer gesture, which can feel unfamiliar if users prefer a traditional tap to accept incoming calls. Although the interface now offers no native toggle to revert to its old design, users have a couple of options to restore their preferred user experience.

How to Revert to the Previous Version

For those longing for the former layout, the solution might be to uninstall the latest update. This process will ensure that users fall back to the previous version of the Google Phone app. To do so, one must access the Google Play Store, search for 'Phone by Google', open the app's page, and tap on the three-dot menu to disable the 'Enable auto-update' option. Follow these steps by selecting 'Uninstall' to successfully remove the newest updates without removing the app itself.

Modifying Incoming Call Gestures

There's an alternative to adjusting the incoming call gesture without uninstalling the recent updates. By navigating to the Phone app's menu—often represented as three horizontal lines—users can access Settings and click on 'Incoming call gesture'. Here, they can select 'Single tap', ensuring that only a tap is required to answer incoming calls, thus bringing a layer of familiarity back to their daily interactions.

Exploring Additional Options

For those interested in further updates to their Android experience, upgrading to Android 16 may be up for consideration. To take this step, users should head to Settings > System and update > Software update > Update now. Nonetheless, when it comes to the Google Phone app, those attached to previous designs have viable options at their disposal to reclaim their preferred interface.

Update: 27 Aug 2025