Google Phone Wear OS M3 Expressive Redesign: What’s New and Why It Matters
If you've recently noticed a refreshed look while using the Google Phone app on your Wear OS smartwatch, you're not alone. Google is rolling out the M3 Expressive redesign for Google Phone on Wear OS, bringing it in line with Material You aesthetics seen on Android phones. But what exactly does this update include, and how does it improve your experience? Whether you're on a Pixel Watch or another Wear OS device, this redesign brings noticeable UI enhancements that prioritize usability, accessibility, and a sleeker look. In this post, we’ll break down the new features of the Google Phone Wear OS M3 Expressive update, what’s changing visually, and what you can expect in the coming weeks.
Smoother Call Interface with M3 Expressive Design on Wear OS
One of the most noticeable changes in the Google Phone app on Wear OS is the updated in-call screen. The redesign introduces a larger, bottom-anchored red end-call button, making it easier to tap on smaller smartwatch displays. This is a welcome usability improvement, especially when you're on the go or mid-workout and need to hang up quickly. Above that, Google has shifted the mute and overflow menu buttons higher up on the screen, while the call duration now sits neatly in the center line. These subtle but effective interface adjustments help reduce visual clutter and make essential call controls more intuitive. These changes align closely with the Material 3 guidelines, ensuring a more consistent experience across Android and Wear OS platforms.
Dialer and Incoming Call Screen Now More Intuitive
The M3 Expressive update for Google Phone on Wear OS doesn’t stop at in-call interactions. The number-dialing interface and the homescreen are also being updated, though the rollout is still gradual. Not everyone will see the full redesign yet, especially if you're not on the beta channel. But early glimpses show a more spacious and refined dialer layout, replacing the rigid grid-based design with a more modern and flexible list view. One of the standout additions is the new incoming call screen, which offers users a choice between swiping left/right or tapping clearly labeled buttons to accept or reject calls. This dual-mode interaction design caters to different user preferences and enhances accessibility for all.
Bottom Navigation Bar and Ongoing Rollout for Wear OS Users
Some Wear OS users in the beta program have reported spotting a new bottom navigation bar within the Google Phone app, showing tabs like Home, Keypad, and Voicemail. While others have only partial access to these features, this is clearly part of a broader rollout. These changes bring the smartwatch app closer to its smartphone counterpart, both in terms of appearance and navigation logic. The M3 Expressive redesign for Google Phone on Wear OS also includes color theming based on watch face styles, dynamic spacing, and improved animations—all hallmarks of Google’s Material You philosophy. While it's not yet available to all smartwatches, it's expected to reach more users in the coming weeks as Google continues to refine the experience based on feedback from beta testers.
A Subtle but Significant Upgrade for Wear OS Users
The M3 Expressive update to the Google Phone app on Wear OS might seem like a minor visual refresh, but it brings a more refined and user-friendly interface to smartwatches. With larger touch targets, better call controls, a redesigned dialer, and dynamic visuals, the update enhances both usability and aesthetics. It also signals Google's commitment to delivering a seamless and modern Wear OS experience that reflects the Material You design evolution. If you're not seeing the update yet, don’t worry—it’s gradually rolling out and should hit more devices soon. Whether you’re a long-time Pixel Watch user or just getting started with Wear OS, this is one update worth looking forward to.
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