Google Contacts has unveiled a redesigned settings interface that prioritizes accessibility and ease of use, especially for users managing extensive contact lists. With updates aimed at making contact management simpler, the new version of Google Contacts (4.30.50.628193927) introduces visual and structural changes to streamline everyday contact tasks. Although the updated version is not yet available via the Play Store, Android Authority contributor and tipster Assemble Debug sideloaded the update through APKMirror, revealing the significant interface improvements.
Key Changes in the New Google Contacts Interface
Icon-Based Interface for Intuitive Navigation
The update replaces text-heavy menus with a more visually driven layout featuring icons, simplifying access to key functions. This icon-based design reduces the need for scrolling or searching through extensive options, making frequently used tools easier to find and use.
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Streamlined Access to Key Features
Previously buried within the three-dot (or “meatballs”) menu, essential tools such as merging duplicate contacts, linking profiles, and setting favorites are now prominently displayed. This change saves time for users who regularly update their contact lists, making contact management faster and more efficient.
Enhanced Customization Options
In the updated version, Google Contacts now offers more intuitive ways to customize views and filters. Users can adjust the visibility and arrangement of contacts based on specific criteria, enabling a more tailored experience. This feature is particularly useful for business users who manage diverse client lists or for anyone looking to organize personal contacts more effectively.
New “Reminders” Feature
The redesigned interface introduces a new “Reminders” feature, allowing users to set birthday and anniversary notifications for individual contacts. This addition simplifies tracking important dates, reducing the risk of missing special occasions, and adds a personal touch to contact management.
Improved Contact Creation and Editing
A new favorite button at the top of the interface allows users to quickly mark contacts as favorites, even during the creation process. The “Add field” button also received an upgrade; it now opens a small dialog for adding specific details rather than filling the entire screen with input fields, making it easier to include important information without overwhelming the user interface.
Why This Redesign Matters
The new interface aims to optimize Google Contacts for both personal and professional use by removing the extra steps previously required in the meatball menu. By streamlining navigation, Google has created a more accessible, efficient contact management experience that benefits users with large or complex contact lists. Whether for organizing business connections or personal networks, this update brings Google Contacts closer to the practical needs of modern users, making it a valuable tool for daily contact management.