Google Home testing on Chromecast with Google TV and Google Messages bug brings back old text field design
Google is making strides in expanding its ecosystem with new updates for Chromecast with Google TV, alongside a Google Messages bug that revives an old text field design. These changes offer new experiences and adjustments for users, reflecting Google’s ongoing evolution of its services.
Google Home Panel Comes to Chromecast with Google TV
Google is testing new features for the Chromecast with Google TV, allowing integration with Google Home. A new feature, called the Home Panel, enables users to control various smart home devices, such as lights, thermostats, locks, cameras, and more, directly from their TV screen. This advancement aligns with Google’s vision of a more unified smart home ecosystem, making it easier for users to manage their devices without needing separate apps or controllers.
The testing phase for this feature has begun, and users who wish to try it early must join the Google Home app’s preview program on their mobile devices. Once enrolled, the Home Panel will become available on Google TV in a trial version, giving users a chance to explore its functionality.
The Home Panel aims to simplify smart home control, but some early feedback points to its limited features. As of now, its capabilities are confined to basic device control, and many users are hoping for a more expansive set of tools in future updates.
For those who are not part of the preview program, the official rollout of this feature across all Chromecast with Google TV devices is expected to take a few months. Google has outlined the activation process and details on a dedicated support page, providing users with an overview of what to expect as this feature becomes more widely available.
Google Messages Bug Reintroduces Old Text Field Design
In an unexpected twist, Google Messages users on the latest beta version have noticed the return of an outdated text field layout. The version 20241008_00_RC00 of Google Messages, which was released on Thursday, has reintroduced a one-line text input field that was previously replaced by a more streamlined design.
In this older design, the text field begins with a ‘plus’ button, followed by quick access to gallery, camera, and Magic Compose for compatible devices. Emoji, GIFs, stickers, and other multimedia tools are also located within the field, along with an audio recorder. When users start typing, some of these options disappear, replaced by a chevron icon that brings back the shortcuts.
However, this text field design is narrower than the current version, causing the three quick actions on the left to appear cramped. While it offers the benefit of right alignment, making sent messages more consistent in appearance, it was not without its flaws.
This change is likely a bug, as Google had previously committed to a left-aligned, two-line text field design after user feedback prompted a redesign. The reappearance of this old layout suggests that the company is still refining the user interface, and this issue may soon be patched.
While not all users are affected, the bug has been spotted on select devices running the beta version of Google Messages. Google is expected to address the problem in an upcoming update, as the company seems dedicated to the newer design format.
Conclusion: Google Continues to Evolve Its Services
Both the Google Home Panel integration with Chromecast and the Google Messages bug illustrate Google’s ongoing efforts to enhance user experiences across its platforms. The Home Panel marks an exciting step forward for smart home integration, though it is still in its early stages. Meanwhile, the Google Messages bug serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with continuous updates and user interface changes. As Google works through these developments, users can expect further improvements and refinements in the near future.
Google Meet is getting a big update to its look, thanks to the new Material 3 design. This change brings a cleaner and more modern style to the video calling app, making it easier and more enjoyable to use.
With Material 3, Google Meet now has rounder buttons, softer colors, and better spacing between elements. The main controls, like the microphone, camera, and end call buttons, are now larger and easier to tap. The icons and text are also clearer, which helps users find what they need quickly during a call.
Another improvement is the new “expressive” color system. This feature lets the app’s colors match your device’s wallpaper or theme, giving each user a unique and personalized experience. The changes also make Google Meet more accessible, as the new design is easier to read and use for everyone, including people with vision difficulties.
These updates are rolling out to both web and mobile versions of Google Meet. Google says the new look will help people feel more comfortable and focused during their meetings. Overall, the Material 3 update makes Google Meet not only look better but also work better for all its users.
Android Auto is a helpful tool that lets you use your phone’s apps safely while driving. It connects your phone to your car’s screen, making it easier to use maps, music, and calls. One of the features many people like is the ability to change how Android Auto looks by switching between light and dark themes.
How to switch between light and dark themes
Android Auto offers two main themes: light and dark. The light theme uses brighter colors, which can make the screen easier to see during the day. The dark theme uses darker colors, which can be more comfortable for your eyes at night or in low light.
To change the theme, follow these steps:
- Open the Android Auto app on your phone.
- Go to the settings menu.
- Find the “Theme” option.
- Choose between “Light,” “Dark,” or “Set by car” (this lets your car decide the theme based on the time of day or your car’s settings).
Why themes matter
Using the right theme can make driving safer and more comfortable. The light theme is good for bright days, while the dark theme helps reduce glare at night. Having these options means you can pick what works best for you, making Android Auto easier to use in any condition.
In short, Android Auto’s theme options are simple to use and help you drive more safely by making the screen easy to see, no matter the time of day.
Google is rolling out some helpful updates to two of its popular apps: Google Drive and Files by Google. These changes are designed to make managing your files and watching videos much smoother.
First, Google Drive is getting a new video player. Now, when you upload a video to Drive and open it, you’ll notice a fresh look that matches Google’s latest design style. The controls, like play and pause, are easier to use and look cleaner. This update makes it simpler to watch videos directly in Drive without needing to download them first.
Meanwhile, the Files by Google app is also getting a makeover. The app is adopting Google’s Material 3 design, which means it looks brighter and more modern. The buttons and menus are easier to see and use, making it simpler to find, move, and organize your files. There are also new color options and improved icons, so everything feels more user-friendly.
Both updates show Google’s commitment to making its apps more helpful and enjoyable to use. Whether you’re watching videos in Drive or sorting files on your phone, these changes aim to save you time and make things less complicated. If you use these apps, keep an eye out for these new features—they should arrive soon!
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