Google Contacts changes up adding contacts: farewell FAB, Hello plus sign

Google Contacts
Google Contacts

Key Points:

  • Google Contacts for Android is undergoing design changes, notably replacing the floating action button (FAB) for adding contacts with a ‘plus’ sign in the top-right corner across all tabs.
  • The navigation drawer has been removed, and the profile avatar is no longer part of the search field, resembling the Play Store’s transition of moving the search function to the bottom bar.
  • While the new design aims for consistency across tabs and screen sizes, the removal of the FAB, a widely recognized method for adding content, may initially challenge users’ familiarity.

In the latest update to Google Contacts for Android, users may notice a significant departure from the traditional design. The once prominent floating action button (FAB), often synonymous with adding new contacts, is now being replaced by a discreet ‘plus’ sign nestled in the top-right corner. This change, while subtle, marks a departure from the familiar user interface that many have grown accustomed to.

Furthermore, the removal of the navigation drawer and the relocation of the profile avatar from the search field evoke a design reminiscent of the Play Store’s recent adjustments. This shift aims to streamline the user experience, making navigation more intuitive across various screen sizes.

However, the decision to retire the FAB, a widely accepted convention for adding content, may raise eyebrows among users. While the new design prioritizes consistency across tabs, the absence of the FAB could initially disrupt users’ workflow and require some adjustment.

In conclusion, Google Contacts’ latest update signifies a departure from convention in favor of a more streamlined user experience. Whether users will embrace these changes or long for the familiarity of the FAB remains to be seen.