While Google continues its trend of simplifying mobile application design, it is trying to make this process compatible with artificial intelligence technologies. The company, which has recently emphasized visual consistency on the Android platform, draws attention with its icon updates. In this context, new icons prepared for Google Photos and Google Maps may meet users very soon. Design changes should not be considered only as a visual innovation; It is also a harbinger of upcoming artificial intelligence integrations.
Google redesigned application icons for the first time in 2020, and has been trying to create a clear language for visual consistency ever since. The four-color icons used in applications such as Gmail, Drive and Meet caused confusion at that time. Despite this, the company did not deviate from this line and took steps to increase the harmony between symbols. Besides all these, more fluid transitions and simple forms attract attention in the latest updates. This approach aims to create a smoother and more eye-pleasing experience in the user interface.
Google carries its artificial intelligence-focused design approach to its icons
The most striking element in the new icons was the use of transitional colors instead of sharp lines. While the Google Photos icon continues to maintain its general form, the transitions between colors are noticeably softened. In this way, visual integrity is increased and a simpler design is created for users. The Google Maps icon is undergoing a more significant change; Although the classic needle form is preserved, it has a wider and rounded appearance. On the other hand, this change in symbols may be incomplete when evaluated alone; because this design approach is directly linked to artificial intelligence features in applications.
Over the last year, Google has accelerated the process of integrating the Gemini artificial intelligence model into Android applications. Automatic album creation, image recognition and smart search features offered in Google Photos are already supported by Gemini. In addition, artificial intelligence-supported recommendation systems and more dynamic road planning are also being tested on Google Maps. Therefore, this innovation in icons should be considered as an extension of the underlying infrastructure changes. Regardless, users will first notice this change through the icons.
No official statement has been made about when the new icons will be available. However, considering the level of detail of the leaked designs, it is estimated that this transition will not be delayed much. Similar updates that Google had previously made in its Home and Search applications reached users in a short time. Therefore, a similar process is expected to be followed for Photos and Maps. On the other hand, it seems quite possible that this innovation will spread to other applications.
The new icons, simplified with gradient color transitions, signal not only an aesthetic but also a functional restructuring. Because icons, as one of the most externally visible faces of an application, directly affect the user experience. At this point, even though it is thought that the icon change does not provide a direct benefit to the user, it is a fact that it positively affects the relationship with the interface. Users’ first impression of applications is largely shaped by icons. In addition to all this, it seems that this simplification of symbols offers a stronger identity in terms of branding.
The new design language adopted by Google in application icons increases visual harmony on mobile and also emphasizes functionality. It is aimed that applications such as Maps and Photos, which are frequently preferred in daily use, will have a more modern and accessible structure thanks to these design changes. In addition, when simplicity in design is combined with artificial intelligence features, the user experience can become more intuitive. As in the past, there is not only a visual update; At the same time, a functional redefinition process is being carried out. Therefore, it looks like these changes will not be limited to just icons.