Google has been busy fine-tuning its Android apps and the latest update is Google News. Following on from Google Maps’ recent redesign that slimmed down the bottom bar, Google News now sports a cleaner, more minimalist look. The updated app optimizes the bottom bar layout for a less cluttered user experience.

The latest Google News update reduces the bottom navigation bar. Previously there was “For You”, “Headlines”, “Following” and “Newsstand”. Now For You and Headlines are combined into a single Home tab, combining personalized content with top stories, 9to5Google discovered. The Follow and Newsstand tabs remain unchanged.

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You’ll also now find a handy category carousel at the top, giving you quick access to key sections like Headlines, Local, US, World, Business, Tech, Entertainment, Sports, Science and Health. These categories, previously hidden in the Headlines section, are now front and center, saving extra steps and making it easier to find the news that interests you.

The revamped Google News app also uses bold highlights to highlight your current feed in the carousel. While it may make one-handed navigation a little more difficult for some, it improves overall navigation by providing a clearer, more visually appealing way to track where you are.

Google News is the app of choice for bringing together the world’s top stories in one place. While you can get the latest updates through the Google app, News offers Android users a more targeted, dedicated section to stay up to date.

Google’s apps are all minimalist and News is no exception

The shrinking of Google News’ bottom bar from four tabs to three reflects a broader trend in Google’s app design. This streamlined approach reduces mind clutter, improves usability, and adds a touch of elegance. Fewer tabs means a cleaner, simpler look that fits perfectly with Material You’s sleek, minimalist style. The redesign is rolling out to Android with version 5.120.x thanks to a server-side update.