YouTube Music has launched a significant redesign aimed at enhancing user experience on its Android platform. As part of the improvements celebrating its 10th anniversary, the music streaming service is testing a new location for its Search bar, making it more accessible for one-handed use.
The redesign relocates the Search bar from its traditional position in the top-right corner to the bottom navigation bar. Previously, users accessed the Search feature by tapping a magnifying glass icon located between the notification bell and profile avatar. With the new layout, accessing Search requires just two taps, streamlining the process for users who prefer to navigate the app with one hand.
Improved Navigation and Features
In this updated design, the Search page offers a pill-shaped bar at the top with the prompt “Search songs, artists, pod…”, accompanied by shortcuts for voice search and song lookup. Users will find various sections including New Releases, Charts, Mood & Genres, and Podcasts, alongside carousels showcasing New Albums & Singles, Popular Episodes, Trending content, and New Music Videos.
The change replaces the existing “Explore” button, although the content remains consistent with the previous Explore page. This alteration is part of an ongoing effort by Google to refine the user interface of YouTube Music, making it more intuitive and engaging.
The redesign is not yet widely available, but users who receive the update will notice a prompt stating “Search + Explore,” indicating the new functionality. According to 9to5Google, the keyboard will no longer open automatically, enhancing the two-tap action for initiating searches.
Anticipated Rollout
While the exact timeline for the widespread release of this feature remains uncertain, it marks a promising advancement for users seeking efficient navigation. The redesign aims to make it easier for users to access the Search page directly, even from the Samples section.
This update reflects YouTube Music’s commitment to evolving its platform in response to user feedback, ensuring that the experience remains accessible and enjoyable. The shift towards a more user-friendly interface could potentially enhance user engagement and satisfaction as the platform continues to compete in the crowded music streaming industry.