Google Phone App Beta Restores Contacts Tab to Bottom Bar
Google's Phone app beta brings the Contacts tab back to the bottom bar, reversing a change that moved it to the sidebar. The rollout is gradual.
Google's Phone app is bringing the Contacts tab back to the bottom bar in its latest beta version. The change was spotted in beta version 240.0.98 on a Pixel 9, according to Android Authority.
The rollout appears to be gradual. The Contacts tab was not visible on other Android phones with the same beta installed, suggesting a staged release.
In the stable version of the app, the bottom bar currently shows only two tabs. Contacts remains accessible through the sidebar or a chip below the search bar.
Background
Last year, Google moved the Contacts tab to the sidebar, removing it from the bottom bar. A few days ago, Android Authority exclusively revealed that the tab would return to the bottom bar.
Quick answers
What is the new Contacts tab change in the Phone by Google app?
The Contacts tab is returning to the bottom bar in beta version 240.0.98, as spotted on a Pixel 9.
Is the Contacts tab available on all Android phones?
No, the rollout appears gradual. The tab was not visible on other Android phones with the beta installed.
How do I access Contacts in the stable version?
In the stable version, Contacts is accessible via the sidebar or a chip below the search bar.