# Google News Redesign: A Simplified Minimalistic Refresh for the Feed
Google is said to be in the process of implementing a major redesign of its News app, with the goal of enhancing user experience through a simpler, more minimalistic style. The anticipated modifications, uncovered in a teardown of version 5.115.0.670880469 of the app, indicate that the feed is set to appear “remarkably basic,” prioritizing straightforward navigation and simplicity. This overhaul might significantly change user engagement with the app, making it more visually appealing yet less organized.
## Key Points to Note
– **Simplified Design**: Google is developing a new layout for its News app, featuring a reimagined “Home” tab.
– **Enhanced Hero Images**: The redesign may include larger hero image cards, giving the feed a more visual orientation.
– **Tab Elimination**: The “For You” and “Headlines” tabs might be removed to create a more efficient navigation experience.
– **Latest Developments**: Last year, Google launched the “Following” tab, enabling users to tailor their news feed by subscribing to specific sources.
### Embracing Minimalism
The forthcoming redesign seems to concentrate on minimalistic aesthetics, with the deletion of several familiar sections that users have come to expect. The existing version of the Google News app includes well-defined sections like “Top Stories,” “Local News,” and “Picks for You,” assisting users in navigating various content types. However, the anticipated design appears to forgo these labels, positioning articles closer to the screen’s top and expanding the hero images.
These larger hero images are poised to take precedence in the feed, featuring article headings and publication dates displayed underneath. This alteration could enhance the app’s visual engagement but might also reduce its structured feel, as users would no longer have clear section titles as navigation aids.
### The “Home” Tab: A Centralized Hub
A prominent alteration in the redesign is the potential introduction of a “Home” tab, likely replacing the existing “For You” tab. This “Home” tab would act as a central point for users, offering a more cohesive stream of news articles. This transition might create a more traditional news aggregator feel, akin to the news cards displayed on Android users’ home screens or within the Chrome browser.
While the “Home” tab is intended to simplify user interactions, it could potentially compromise personalization. The removal of the “For You” tab, which curates news according to user choices, could hinder the app’s ability to deliver customized content.
### The Possible Disappearance of the “Headlines” Tab
Another noteworthy adjustment hinted at in the code is the possible removal of the “Headlines” tab. This tab currently allows users to view the latest headlines across multiple categories, including U.S. news, sports, and technology. If Google opts to remove this tab, users might lose an efficient method for quickly scanning major stories in various categories.
Nonetheless, it’s important to highlight that some features, such as the three-dot menu for article options and the “Full Coverage” icon, are expected to stay. These elements enable users to delve deeper into specific stories, ensuring that the app continues to provide a thorough news experience despite its simplified design.
### Recent Developments in Google News
This isn’t the first instance of considerable changes to Google News. Last year, the company rolled out the “Following” tab, which allows users to follow particular news outlets and tailor their feeds. This feature has been positively received, as it helps users avoid perpetual scrolling by highlighting content from interesting sources.
In addition to the “Following” tab, Google also discontinued support for digital magazines last year. Users were informed of a deadline to download or export their magazines before they were removed from the app. These modifications signify Google’s ongoing dedication to refining its News app and enhancing the overall user-friendly experience.
### Implications for Users
The potential redesign of the Google News app indicates a transition toward a more minimalistic and visually focused experience. While the incorporation of larger hero images and the optimized “Home” tab may enhance the app’s visual appeal, the removal of essential features like the “For You” and “Headlines” tabs could disappoint users who depend on these sections for personalized news and quick access to significant stories.
However, the inclusion of the “Following” and “Newsstand” tabs implies that Google remains committed to providing a degree of customization. Particularly, the “Following” tab enables users to curate their news feeds by subscribing to specific outlets, ensuring they receive content from trusted and enjoyable sources.
### A Work in Progress
It’s crucial to remember that the redesign is still under development, and some elements of the new design may not yet be fully operational. This indicates that the final version of the app might differ significantly from the current iteration revealed in the teardown. Google may also opt to re-evaluate certain aspects based on user feedback and testing results.
