Google overhauls the interface on Smart Displays

Google is about to make your smart display a whole lot more useful, especially if you’re in a hurry. A major update will be released (via Android police) which adds some really handy features, including some that surprisingly weren’t there before.

The Smart Display update revolves around a visual overhaul that, according to Google, offers more information at a glance. A new “Your Tomorrow” page shows important information such as the news, weather and upcoming meetings, while “Your Afternoon” and “Your Evening” provide timely features such as relaxing sounds. Shows and videos are suggested in a media area, attempts are recommended in “Discover”, and your Smart Home functions are summarized in one place on the “Home Control” page.

Continue reading: How Google is improving the Smart Display Assistant

This is also a major upgrade when dividing attention between home and work. Smart displays powered by Google now support multiple accounts without having to switch between them. They ask the assistant to join a meeting because they know the correct account is being used, Google said. This also applies to assistant-enabled devices such as phones and smart speakers.

Google’s other updates to smart displays are simpler, but no less convenient. Dark subjects are easier on your eyes at night. Meet on the Nest Hub Max and now frame automatically as you move around during video chats. And if you prefer a gentle wake-up, a sunrise alarm (shown first on the Lenovo Smart Clock) will gradually increase the brightness of the display to mimic nature.

At the same time, something arrives for phone users. Android police discovered that Google is rolling out an updated assistant interface on Android that unifies the experience between newer devices with assistants like the Pixel 4 and those that were previously stuck with the older design. These don’t have a significant impact on functionality, but you won’t feel left behind.