Google may soon change how you answer phone calls

Google

Do you still answer phone calls the old-fashioned way? While most communication happens through texts and apps, voice calls remain important. And if you use the Google Phone app, you might soon have to adjust to a new way of answering calls.

For years, Android users have swiped up to answer and down to decline calls. It’s a simple, familiar motion. But with the latest beta update (Phone v166.0.735169223), Google is testing a left-right swipe instead. Now, you’ll need to slide the call button right to answer or left to decline, according to an Android Authority

This might not seem like a big deal at first. But for users who have relied on the up-down gesture for years, it’s a change that could take some getting used to. And the big question remains—why fix something that wasn’t broken?

Google has experimented with different call screen designs before, even testing one that closely resembled iOS. However, it’s unclear whether this new UI will actually roll out or remain just another test.

If Google plans to roll out the new UI, this change will impact millions of users on devices like Google Pixel, Xiaomi, and OnePlus. Some might find the new gesture more intuitive, while others may see it as unnecessary. The success of this update will depend on user feedback and whether the new swipe direction feels natural over time.