Google tests AI-style voice search redesign in Android app

Google is testing a redesigned voice and song search interface in its Android app that aligns with the company’s AI Mode aesthetics. The new interface removes recent search suggestions and incorporates pulsing animations similar to those used in Google’s AI features, signaling a broader shift toward AI-integrated user experiences across Google’s mobile applications.

What you should know: The redesigned interface represents a significant departure from Google’s current voice search functionality.

• The new design eliminates previous and suggested searches that currently appear below the “listening…” prompt.
• Voice search now uses the same pulsing animation found in Google’s AI Mode, asking users “What’s on your mind?”
• Song search functionality has been overhauled with a more prominent “Play Sing Hum” message and matching animation style.

The rollout details: Google is conducting a limited server-side test of the new interface.

• The changes appear in version 16.36.40.sa.arm64 beta of the Google app.
• Only select users can access the redesigned interface, even with the correct app version installed.
• The test was first spotted by Telegram user @shishirverm.

Broader context: This isn’t Google’s only voice search redesign experiment currently in testing.

• The Play Store recently gained its own redesigned voice search interface just weeks ago.
• Interestingly, the Play Store’s new voice search design resembles the current Google app interface that may soon be replaced.
• This suggests Google may rapidly transition the Play Store to the AI Mode-style interface as well.

Why this matters: The redesign reflects Google’s strategic push to integrate AI branding and functionality across its entire ecosystem, making AI features more visually consistent and prominent in everyday user interactions.