Google update on Phone app stops accidental pocket calls with swipe gesture; see other features

Google is rolling out a redesigned Phone app with its Material 3 Expressive update, according to 9to5 Google. The update, now available in version 186 and above for stable users, follows testing that began in June and brings both visual and functional improvements.

The new design merges the Favorites and Recents tabs into a single Home tab, where starred contacts appear in a carousel at the top of the call list.

The Keypad has moved to the middle tab, replacing the floating action button, with a rounded number pad sheet. Voicemail largely remains the same, apart from the updated list style.

Google has also moved Contacts into a navigation drawer accessible from the search bar, alongside Settings, Clear call history, and Help & feedback.

One of the notable functional updates is the incoming call gesture, allowing users to answer or decline calls via horizontal swipe or single tap. Google says this change helps reduce accidental answers or declines when taking the phone out of a pocket.

During calls, the interface now features pill-shaped buttons that morph into rounded rectangles when selected, with a larger end-call button for improved usability.

The update builds on Google’s ongoing rollout of Material 3 Expressive designs across its apps, including Contacts and Messages, to simplify navigation and provide a more intuitive experience.

FAQs

What’s new in the Google Phone app with the Material 3 Expressive update?

The update merges Favorites and Recents into a single Home tab, adds a carousel for starred contacts, moves the Keypad to a dedicated tab, updates the call log style, and introduces new gestures for answering and declining calls. Visual elements are refreshed with Material 3 Expressive styling.

How do I answer or decline calls in the new Phone app?

You can now answer or decline incoming calls with a horizontal swipe or a single tap. This can be customized in the Incoming call gesture settings and is designed to reduce accidental responses while handling your phone.

Where can I find my Contacts and Settings in the updated app?

Contacts, Settings, Clear call history, and Help & feedback are now accessible via a new navigation drawer, which can be opened from the search bar in the Home tab.