Google Messages for Android gets a new look

Old vs. new look (Image: 9to5Google)

Google Messages for Android received a subtle but noticeable update: a bolder send button. Before this, the paper airplane icon blended into the conversation's background. Now, it pops against it in a contrasting colour, so it's easier to spot and tap.

The background colour matches your Dynamic Colour theme or one of eight Custom Bubble options. The paper airplane icon will be light or dark, depending on the background colour, ensuring you see it. This change is rolling out to Google Messages beta users (version 20240813_00_RC00). It's a minimal but welcome improvement to make sending messages more intuitive.

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Google Photos overhauls Library with new "Collections" tab

Image: 9to5Google

After a failed redesign attempt in 2022, Google Photos is once again revamping its Library tab, this time introducing a new "Collections" tab aimed at simplifying photo and video discovery.

The previous redesign featured a grid of recent albums and filters for sorting content. This version replaces the Library tab entirely with "Collections," using the same icon. The new tab prioritizes quick access to frequently used features like Favorites and Trash with dedicated buttons. A dynamic grid displays commonly accessed folders such as Screenshots and Archive, though the controversial Locked Folder will be absent.

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Google to launch Pixel devices on August 13

Photo: Google

In a surprising move, Google is set to unveil its latest Pixel lineup on August 13, marking a significant departure from the company's usual October launch window. This earlier-than-expected event could be a strategic attempt to avoid overlapping with Apple's September product launch or to minimize pre-release leaks. The highly anticipated event is expected to feature the Pixel 9 smartphone, new Pixel Buds, a larger Pixel Watch, and an updated Pixel Fold. You can sign up to get more details about the new devices here.

The Sonos app overhaul: A costly miscalculation

The new Sonos app (Photo: Sonos)

Sonos’s ambitious redesign of its app promised a more modern, customizable, and user-friendly experience. However, two months later, the overhaul has proven to be a colossal misstep. While the company has been frantically backtracking with frequent updates to restore missing features, widespread customer frustration persists.

In a damage control effort, CEO Patrick Spence issued a public apology, acknowledging the significant disruption caused by the new app. The mea culpa comes after initial responses were perceived as tone-deaf, given the app’s numerous bugs and shortcomings.

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