Google Chat is getting a facelift to match Docs, Sheets and Gmail

Google Chat is getting a facelift to match Docs, Sheets and Gmail

Google Chat is getting a new look that matches the redesigned interfaces of Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Slides, and Gmail. Like the changes made to its other workspace apps, this one is also based on Google's Material Design 3 system.

As you can see in the GIF below, you'll notice some minor changes throughout the interface, including circular buttons (and a circular search bar), as well as some blue accents. There have also been some minor changes to the main message view, composition setup, the new topic button, and the thread panel within direct messages and spaces.

Earlier this week, Google also announced a new chat feature that lets space managers create announcements-only channels, similar to what you can do in Slack. It seems like an easy way to keep all members of a team on the same page, as having a dedicated announcement space means you won't have to dig through a bunch of conversations just to find one important update. ,

That said, the design update doesn't bring any unexpected changes, but when you see Google Chat look a bit different as the redesign rolls out over the next few weeks, at least you'll know why.