Only two weeks after releasing a redesign on iOS, a brand new version of Google+ for Android is here with a fresher, sleeker design and heaps of additional features. Most notably, Android users can now start a hangout on the go and edit posts inline.
Just like in iOS, this release features crisper fonts, larger profile pics and a friendlier home-screen. In addition, Google worked to make the stream easier to scan and easier on the eyes, with overlays, gradients and other visual elements.
From Vic Gundotra, Senior Vice President at Google:
Start a hangout from anywhere, and ring the folks that matter mostWith Hangouts we want to help people connect face-to-face-to-face—at any time, from anywhere. Of course, there’s really only one device that’s always by your side—your phone—so we’ve invested in mobile hangouts since early on. Today we’re adding another important feature to the mix: the ability to start a hangout directly from your mobile device.To get started, tap “Hangout” in the (new) navigation ribbon, add some friends and tap “Start.” We’ll ring their phones (if you want), and if someone misses the hangout, they can ring you back with a single tap.Share your favorites, and feel awesome afterward
When you share with your circles, we owe you an experience that’s both intimate and immersive. Your time and your relationships are precious, after all, so your posts should make you feel proud. Today’s new Android app takes this to heart, with full-screen media in the stream, conversations that fade into view and instantly-touchable actions like +1.Do more, in less time
We think you’ll find today’s app nicer to look at, but we’re also making it easier to use. Improvements include:
- A navigation ribbon that slides in and out, providing quick access to just about everything
- The ability to download photos directly from Google+, and turn them into wallpaper
- The chance to edit posts inline, in case you make any mistakes while on the go
