Key Takeaways
1. Google is replacing the Weather shortcut on Android with a web-only weather interface within Google Search.
2. The new weather interface features an AI-generated summary and a 10-day forecast but lacks a full-screen view.
3. Users now see a typical web results page with additional links and content, which is viewed as a downgrade in user experience.
4. Not all Android devices have transitioned to the new setup yet, as some still display the traditional weather app.
5. There are calls for Google to make the exclusive Weather app available for all Android devices, not just Pixel phones.
Google is removing the easy way to get weather updates on Android devices. The Google Weather shortcut, which acted like a small, standalone app but was part of the Google Search app, is being replaced by a new web-only option.
New Weather Interface
Since November, Google has been sending users to a new weather interface within Google Search as part of a testing phase. However, according to 9to5Google, it seems that the tech giant has started a broader rollout, effectively ending the simple weather solution that Android users have depended on for many years.
When users tap the Weather shortcut on their homescreen, they are now directed to a Google Search weather results page. This page showcases weather forecasts with a familiar Froggy background card, featuring an AI-generated weather summary, a standard 10-day forecast carousel, and drop-down menus for air quality, humidity, wind, and precipitation.
Changes in User Experience
Although the web-based setup still provides similar weather information and updates, it no longer offers a full-screen view. Now, it resembles a typical web results page, with extra links and search content appearing as users scroll down. This is seen as a clear downgrade in overall user experience, especially since Google has yet to release a dedicated weather app for Android devices, although they do provide an exclusive Weather app for Pixel phones.
Not all devices have experienced this change yet; many on the latest Search beta are still showing the traditional app view. But the signs are clear. If Google is determined to eliminate its best weather interface, it’s high time to stop restricting access and allow the polished Pixel Weather app to be available for all Android phones.
Via: 9to5Google
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