Google has begun rolling out a significant redesign of its Google Tasks app, bringing a fresh look and updated functionality to Android devices. The redesign first hinted at in June 2024, is now widely available. The update is part of Google’s ongoing efforts to streamline its productivity tools and make them more visually consistent across its ecosystem.
Google Tasks redesign features a card-based interface
The most notable change in the Google Tasks redesign is the introduction of a card-based interface. Each task is displayed on a separate card, creating a clear visual separation between individual tasks and the header. The cards are slightly darker than the background, which becomes more pronounced when dark mode is enabled. This change enhances readability and gives the app a more modern, polished appearance.
The redesign also moves the three-dot overflow menu to the top right corner of each card, alongside the sorting options. The new layout makes it easier to manage tasks and access additional features without cluttering the screen. The completed tasks remain minimized and neatly sit within their cards, preserving the clean aesthetic of the app.
In addition to the visual overhaul, Google has removed the bottom app bar from Google Tasks. The floating action button (FAB) remains in the lower right corner, allowing users to quickly add new tasks. However, the absence of the bottom bar streamlines the interface, making it more intuitive to navigate. The actions previously housed in the bottom bar are still accessible within the task list itself, so users do not lose any functionality with this change.
The decision to remove the bottom app bar aligns with Google’s broader design philosophy of simplicity and ease of use. The app offers a more focused and efficient experience by eliminating unnecessary elements. This is especially true for users managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
The Google Tasks redesign is rolling out gradually to Android users as part of a server-side update tied to version 2024.08.05.x of the app. Users who have not yet received the update can try force-closing and reopening the app to prompt the redesign. If this does not work, downloading the latest version of Google Tasks from a trusted source like APKMirror might help.
Google Tasks to integrate reminders from Google Keep
Beyond the visual changes, the redesign is also a precursor to a more significant functional update. Over the next year, Google plans to integrate all reminders from Google Keep into Google Tasks. While the exact timeline for this migration has not been specified, it signals Google’s intent to centralize task management within Google Tasks.
Google Keep reminders will not be completely phased out, despite this shift. Users will still have access to reminders within the Keep app, ensuring that those who prefer using Keep for note-taking and task management can continue to do so. For users invested in Google’s productivity tools, the redesign offers a fresh, modern interface that enhances task management without sacrificing functionality.
