Google Contacts adds a 'Highlights' tab for favourites

First two: Old two-tab UI, Last two: With the new Highlights tab (Source: Android Police)

Google Contacts is getting refreshed to make it easier to reach the people you get in touch with the most. The app adds a new Highlights tab that brings up your favourite and recently searched contacts or those that you recently talked to. It's possible to clear your recent searches if you want. Google Contacts won't default to the Highlights tab, but it'll continue from the last tab you were on. This new feature is coming as a server-side update to all users via version 3.82.22 of the app.

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Google to shutter old version of Google Contacts web app by February 2019

Say goodbye to this old look

Google has been working on the redesign of the Google Contacts web app since 2015. Recently, it got the new Material Design-inspired look that’s seen in a slew of Google products. Now, the company is ready to leave the past behind with the new Contacts web app replacing the older version completely by February 2019. This specific announcement will impact G Suite users but it’s also likely to affect the number of Gmail accounts who still use the old design.

Starting November 28, the new Contacts web app will come to all G Suite users (or be force-enabled by the organization’s admin). And then it’ll be the default starting January 15, 2019. Admins will not be able to turn this off then. And then on February 12, 2019, the old version will go away entirely.

Source: Android Police

Google brings Contacts app to Android users

If you’re using a Nexus or Pixel device, this Contacts app has been in your possession. Now, other Android users will gain access to the app, too. If you’re the type who wants great, consistent design, you might want to check out Google’s contact management option. The app is now available on Google Play Store for users who run Android 5.0 Lollipop and up.

As you’d expect with an app that manages your contacts, it’ll load your contacts saved on you Google account and let you edit entries and sync these right back. It even lets multiple account syncing, which some users might appreciate. Contacts will also let you start new calls or type out SMS messages right from a specific contact’s page. If you still do this, you can import contacts saved to a SIM card. And it can sort your list based on first name or last name. The app will also let you manage blocked numbers.

Source: Android Central

Microsoft previews Outlook for Mac with Google Calendar and Contacts

Microsoft is bringing to more users the ability to use Google Calendar and Contacts on Outlook for Mac 2016. Initially launched to Office Insider Fast community, the features are now available for anyone to download so they get more feedback about the new additions. This will then allow Outlook for Mac users to add, edit, and delete events from Google Calendar through the Apple app. Gmail users will also get Focused Inbox feature in Outlook as well as package delivery tracking and travel booking. If you’re a regular Office 365 user, though, you’ll have to wait until later in the year to try this out.

Source: The Verge