In its quest to improve the user experience, Google is testing a cleaner version of the “Gemini” interface where visual clutter is trimmed and attention is redirected back to the conversation. Code inside the latest version of the Google app points to a simplified input box, a single center for advanced tools, and a new zone for experimental features.
Article contents:
- Introduction: Gemini in a new look
- Floating input box and a seamless experience
- Design philosophy and reducing cognitive effort
- Unifying advanced controls
- Gemini Labs for experiments
- Why these changes make a difference
- Frequently asked questions
Introduction: Gemini in a new look
Google is currently testing a new iteration of the user interface for its AI assistant, “Gemini,” aimed at making it less cluttered and more conversation-focused. The new changes spotted in the beta version aim to maintain a clean interface without burying powerful controls needed by power users, pointing to a maturity in the company’s design language and a desire to make AI interaction more natural.
Floating input box and a seamless experience
The main difference in the new design is a single-row floating input box at the bottom of the screen. Instead of a bar crowded with icons and configuration options, the default interface highlights just one action: asking a question. When you click to type, the field expands to two rows, indicating that Google reveals more controls only when the user starts typing, known in UI design as “progressive disclosure.”
Design philosophy and reducing cognitive effort
This aligns with previous recommendations from design and usability experts, which advise reducing “cognitive load” and simplifying the primary action. In practice, less is more when it comes to a new user’s starting point; the fewer decisions they need to make before getting started, the better. This shift comes from tweaks spotted inside Google app version 16.51.52, and the interface looks more complete compared to previous versions.
Unifying advanced controls
For those who need more than just chat, there is a “plus” button that consolidates the attachment sheet and model selector into a single panel. This unification is important; when advanced behaviors are spread across numerous icons, it takes more searching to track them down and increases the likelihood of making mistakes. The interface also features a visible “tools” icon. Clicking it leads to a menu of advanced features like “Deep Search” and “Canvas.” Placing these features under an explicit tools input fits the philosophy of “simple by default, powerful when needed.”
Gemini Labs for experiments
An interesting discovery is “Gemini Labs,” mentioned within the app. The branding aligns with “Google Labs” and Research Labs, providing toggles for unfinished Google features that are not yet ready for public release. This will be the place where early testers can turn on Deep Search variants or engineering assistance tools and provide feedback. Centralizing experiments inside Labs also keeps the main user interface clean, rather than scattering unfinished options across the interface.
Why these changes make a difference
AI-based chat lives or dies by the speed to reach the first useful response. Therefore, reducing icon overload and decision fatigue can save seconds in every interaction. The redesign also matches the mobile ergonomics for most people, where targeted, centered floating input increases one-handed usage accuracy.
Frequently asked questions
Q: When will the new design be available to everyone?
A: The changes are still in the testing phase within the Google app, and the company has not announced an official date, but the completeness of the design suggests a public rollout may be near.
Q: What is the “Canvas” feature mentioned?
A: It is a workspace within Gemini that allows users to structure ideas, visuals, and iterations for complex projects without needing to switch between different applications.
Q: Will old features be removed in the new design?
A: No, they are being reorganized instead. Rather than displaying everything at once, advanced tools are hidden in dedicated menus to appear only when needed.
