Key Points:
- Google App on Android tests a persistent search bar at the bottom of web pages.
- Tapping the bar allows immediate searching without leaving the current webpage.
- This might be a precursor to a permanent shift in the app’s UI.
Google seems to be experimenting with a significant change to its Android app. Users enrolled in the latest beta (version 15.24) are encountering a persistent search bar positioned at the bottom of web pages and Discover articles. This “Ask anything” bar features the iconic four-color Google logo alongside a microphone icon for voice search and a Lens icon for image recognition. Tapping the bar seamlessly transitions users to a full-screen search interface, complete with past queries and real-time suggestions as you type.
While the search bar does eat up a small portion of the viewable webpage content (roughly the first paragraph on our site), the trade-off might be appealing for some users. Those previously enrolled in Search Labs’ “AI tools while browsing” feature may recognize a similar concept, although this iteration offers a slightly more streamlined design and less screen real estate intrusion. Interestingly, the “View page insights” option, previously accessible through the overflow menu within the AI tools bar, appears to be missing in this new iteration.
The broader implication of this test lies in its potential to become a permanent fixture within the Google app. The consistent appearance across various devices, including tablets, suggests Google is actively gauging user response to this bottom-positioned search bar. While the core functionality of searching remains unchanged, the immediate access it provides could fundamentally alter how users interact with the app.
Only time will tell if this bottom search bar becomes the norm. However, this test undoubtedly signifies Google’s continuous efforts to refine its search experience and cater to evolving user preferences.
