Google is rolling out redesigns for its Gemini overlay and Gemini Live features on Android, while a separate visual update has been observed on iOS. The changes modify the user interface for interacting with the AI assistant.
Android Gemini Overlay Redesign
The Gemini overlay on Android has been updated to integrate the attachment and Tools menus into a single interface. The new design includes a narrower pill shape, a larger "Ask Gemini" prompt, and a microphone icon displayed in an outline style.
Activating the '+' button reveals a bottom sheet with a carousel at the top offering options for Photos, Camera, Files, Drive, and Notebooks. Below this, additional functions listed include: Create image, Create video, Create music, Canvas, Deep research, Guided learning, and Personal Intelligence. This combined design was previously tested on the web.
Android Gemini Live Redesign
Gemini Live on Android is moving from a fullscreen interface to a new floating pill format. Previously, exiting the fullscreen Live interface showed a pill-shaped indicator in the status bar.
The updated design introduces a floating pill that can be accessed by:
- Activating the Gemini overlay and tapping the Live icon.
- Opening the Gemini application, launching the fullscreen Live UI, and exiting to the home screen.
This pill allows users to start camera or screen sharing, mute the microphone, and end a Live session. If no conversation is active, the keyboard within the pill allows switching to the Gemini overlay. If a conversation is active, it stops the Live session and opens the text transcript.
The floating container displays a waveform in the background, with text transcription above it. These visual elements can be toggled on or off from the top-right corner. When the user navigates other areas of the phone, the pill collapses into a movable circle that can be repositioned. Tapping the circle expands it; swiping down closes it.
The original fullscreen interface remains accessible by reopening the Gemini application. Video sharing continues to use the full user interface.
iOS Interface Update
A user on Reddit posted an image of a redesigned Gemini interface on iOS. The design includes an animated, fluid backdrop beneath the prompt text and logo, described as reacting to user interaction. The interface includes a "+" button that expands into a tool hub with options for images, camera input, music, canvas, deep research, guided learning, and additional uploads. The visual style incorporates semi-transparent layers and soft motion.
Reddit commenters report the redesign has not appeared on their devices, suggesting a phased rollout.
Availability and Rollout
The Android redesigns have been observed with Google app beta version 17.3. The Gemini Live redesign has also been observed on some devices running the stable version 17.3 of the Google app. These updates are not yet available on the stable channel for all users. The iOS interface update has been observed but its distribution status is not confirmed.
The interface updates are anticipated to coincide with a significant model update for Gemini Live. The floating circle functionality may also be applied to computer use interactions, drawing parallels to interfaces demonstrated in Project Astra.