Google is planning to significantly revamp its Gemini AI assistant, transforming it from a conventional chat-based interface to a visually interactive experience that features scrollable newsfeeds and attention-grabbing images. The possible redesign emerged as the technology leader observed that OpenAI’s video editing tool Sora has taken over the top spots in the U.S. App Store rankings.
The Android Authority recently discovered an experimental interface hidden within the Gemini Android app code. The new interface was activated by a reverse engineer and enabled a radically different type of interaction with AI at the user level.
Google has not yet made an announcement about the changes, but a spokesperson confirmed the report and said that there is no announcement to share “just yet”.
The new home screen would replace the white chat box that has characterized AI assistants for decades. At the top of the page, users would find prominent shortcut buttons for major features like ‘Create Picture’ and ‘Deep Research’. A scrolling feed of recommended prompts accompanied by eye-catching, full-color photos is located below the shortcuts.
The presentation style of AI apps as they pertain to users is drastically changed by this feed-as-you-go methodology. Rather than staring at a blank message box and pondering what to write, users can browse visually stunning suggestions that inspire and demonstrate the AI’s capabilities.
Google’s strategy of making AI more accessible and fun is revealed in the example prompts shown in the leaked interface. The photo editing suggestions are fun, with ideas such as ‘Teleport me to deep space,’ ‘Give me a vintage or grunge look,’ and ‘Turn my drawing into a storybook.’ Users are shown creative possibilities immediately by these prompts without the need to understand complex AI terminology.
Other tips emphasize usability. Bright background images feature prompts that provide tips including ‘Brainstorm with Live’ and ‘Add me to your daily news rundown’. Users can try out functions they never knew they had.
Google is betting on visual transformation to differentiate Gemini from rival ChatGPT’s Spartan Design
It’s clear that Google has a reason for this visual transformation. The company’s goal is to make Gemini more user-friendly and less intimidating, particularly for those who may feel overwhelmed by a blank chatbot interface. Google’s goal is to increase engagement and help users gain more value from the AI assistant by providing concrete examples and inspiration.
The time is very favorable. OpenAI’s Sora app has recently made its way to the U.S. The App Store’s top spot is a reflection of the healthy consumer interest in creative apps that utilize AI. In comparison, ChatGPT’s interface is rather sparse, leaving users on a nearly blank page. Google can differentiate Gemini by focusing on better visual design and user experience.
Visual AI functions have been successful for Google in the past. The Top Charts on the App Store in September were topped by Gemini thanks to Google’s Nano Banana image model. The app stayed there from September 12 until October, finally assuming control. It became clear that there is a consumer demand for AI products that can provide visual creativity and interactivity.
This probably encouraged Google to focus more on visuals throughout the entire app experience, rather than just for specific features. If the scrollable feed interface becomes popular, it will serve as a model for how AI assistants should look and act.
Putting Design and UI first in the AI Assistant Race
The possible redesign would mark a significant shift in the battleground for AI assistants. No longer will firms be primarily distinguishing themselves based on technical abilities or the smartness of their underlying models. User interface, aesthetics, and usability would increasingly become comparable differentiators.
Google has the chance to use its design and user interface expertise in the mix. Google has a long history of developing consumer products that look good and perform well. Transferring that skill set to Gemini has the potential to differentiate it in a maturing AI product marketplace.
Even though these changes haven’t been made public, they can be found in the app’s code, which indicates that Google is currently testing them. The corporation’s decision on whether to proceed with the overall redesign or do it in smaller increments is unknown at this time.
One thing is certain: Google understands that it needs to enrich Gemini’s interface both visually and usability-wise. AI assistants with powerful functions and gorgeous and user-friendly interfaces are what commercial mainstream products will evolve into in the future. Google’s experimental new design proves that it understands this truth and prepares itself for competition on all fronts.
