Google is planning significant updates to its Android app, which may include the removal of the familiar bottom search bar that many users are accustomed to. This potential change is part of the company's ongoing efforts to enhance its Gemini AI-powered search capabilities.

The update was first noticed by tipster Assembly Debug in the Google beta app version 15.32.37.28.arm64 for Android. Current designs in development do not include the search bar at the bottom, sparking speculation about the change.

Although Google has not officially announced or explained this adjustment, sources suggest that the redesign is based on user interaction data. The goal seems to be optimizing the app’s layout according to how users engage with it.

Despite the removal of the bottom search bar, users will still have access to search functions within the Google app. The update is expected to impact the search option in the Discover section and while browsing collections, but the search widget on the home screen should remain unaffected and functional.

This development follows recent major design updates to the Google Play Store, where the search bar was relocated from the top of the screen to a new search tab at the bottom.

Additionally, a report from 9to5Google indicates that Google is also rolling out a new update that restricts customization options for the search bar widget on Android devices. This update is initially being introduced to Pixel and Samsung devices before becoming available more broadly.