Google tests redesigned Gemini Live interface that removes fullscreen mode on Android

Google is testing a redesign of Gemini Live that removes the fullscreen interface that has defined the feature since launch. The new design, currently available to Google app beta users on version 17.14, integrates Gemini Live directly into the Gemini app homepage.

What's changing

Instead of taking over the entire screen, Gemini Live now appears within the standard Gemini app interface. The top bar displays "Live with Gemini" with a transcript button, while the bottom prompt box is replaced by a pill-shaped container featuring the blue waveform visualization.

The new interface includes visible controls on either side of the waveform: camera and screen sharing on the left, and microphone muting on the right. Users can exit Gemini Live by tapping the keyboard icon or using the system back gesture.

Previous design tests

This marks the second redesign Google has tested. An earlier iteration featured a more minimalist approach with only camera sharing and keyboard icons, requiring users to double-tap the waveform to mute the microphone. The current redesign makes controls more obvious and accessible.

Rollout details

The redesign is currently limited to the Gemini app itself and does not affect the Gemini overlay. According to the report, Google plans to update the overlay interface to match the in-app experience in the future.

Google has not announced when the redesign will roll out to all users beyond the beta testing group.

What this means

Removing the fullscreen interface represents a significant departure from Gemini Live's original design philosophy. The fullscreen approach was prominently featured in Google's marketing and provided clear visual distinction for voice interactions. The new integrated design may reduce friction for users who want to switch between Live mode and standard text chat, but sacrifices the immersive, focused experience that characterized the feature at launch. This change suggests Google is prioritizing seamless transitions between interaction modes over visual distinctiveness.