Google Play Store making it easier to access search

Google is finally giving some attention to the UI on its stock apps. It is bringing a unified look and feel to its apps and ecosystem of products. An upcoming design change to the Google Play Store will make it easier to access search within the app.

Google Play Store gets Search option on the bottom bar

In December 2023, Google started testing the placement of the search icon on the bottom bar of the Play Store app. Now, the new placement seems to be going live for some Android users. Some Galaxy users might be able to see this change when they open the Google Play Store the next time. It certainly makes accessing the search screen easier, as it now sits closer to your fingers.

With this change, there are now five icons on the bottom bar of the Play Store. Earlier, there were four icons: Games, Apps, Offers, and Books. However, when you access the new search option, it takes you to a new screen where the search bar is at the top, making this whole change a bit strange. This screen also displays search suggestions and trending app and game searches from around the world.

This new design is visible with the latest version of Google Play Store (version 40.1.19-31), but not everyone would have received it by now. It might take a few weeks before this design change appears on your device.