Your preferred contacts have been pushed aside for a more streamlined appearance.
Google’s Phone application has eliminated the previous Favorites tab, resulting in a significant UI overhaul. Favorites are now positioned at the top of the Recents tab, compacted into a narrow row rather than occupying their own section. Google has also removed the “Frequents” list, leaving your frequently called contacts absent in the new design.
Google has given its Phone app a substantial makeover, subtly phasing out a section we’ve all become accustomed to. The redesign is gradually reaching more users, clearly altering the app’s usability and experience.
On Google Phone version 182.0.779772896-publicbeta, the former Favorites tab has been officially removed. Now, your preferred contacts appear in a neat row above your call log in the Recents tab. Our own Nicholas Sutrich has observed the updated layout on his OnePlus 13.
This modification emerged following a leak last month. While some may view the updated UI as progress, it seems Google has quietly eliminated an important feature in the process.
Previously, the Phone app included a bottom tab that allowed immediate access to your top contacts. Just one tap, and your pinned favorites were readily accessible.
Last month’s leak showcased an “Add” button at the end of the favorites row, likely intended for the quick addition of more contacts. However, in the official version, that button is nowhere to be seen.
The updated design leaves the bottom bar appearing somewhat sparse, with only “Recents” and “Contacts” remaining visible. While the layout appears cleaner, it comes with a downside, as Google discreetly removed the “Frequents” section. That useful list of your most-called individuals did not make it into the new configuration, and it’s currently absent.
Google Account page makeover
In other developments, the Google Account page on Android is receiving a visual upgrade, now adopting the Material 3 Expressive design language, as noticed by the team at 9to5Google.
The tabs at the top are no longer present. Instead, everything is arranged in a singular scrollable list, creating a feel that aligns more closely with the Settings app.
At the top of the updated layout, your profile picture, name, and email are prominently displayed, remaining fixed as you scroll. If you manage multiple accounts, there’s a convenient dropdown for switching between them seamlessly.
This alteration has been observed on various devices, including Pixels and Samsung phones running Android 16 and 16 QPR1, provided that Google Play services is upgraded to version 25.25.33.
