Google Contacts Is Getting a Long Overdue Change on the Web

Google Contacts, the long-standing tool used by millions to manage their digital address books, is finally receiving a significant update on the web. After years of minimal enhancements, Google has decided to roll out a new interface and functionality improvements that reflect modern design expectations and practical needs. This overdue change is being welcomed by users who have long relied on Google Contacts but felt left behind by its outdated look and limited features. Here’s everything you need to know about this long-awaited transformation.

A Refreshed User Interface

One of the most noticeable aspects of the update is the redesigned user interface. The previous layout, while functional, had become stale and inconsistent with the design of other Google Workspace apps like Gmail, Calendar, or Drive. The new version brings Google Contacts more in line with Google’s Material Design 3 principles, offering a cleaner and more intuitive experience.

The contact list now uses modern card layouts with better spacing and visual hierarchy. Profile pictures, contact labels, and action buttons are more prominent and easier to navigate. This not only makes the app look better but also improves usability, especially for users who manage large lists of contacts.

Improved Organization and Navigation

Alongside the updated design, Google Contacts now features better organization and navigation tools. A collapsible sidebar, similar to what users find in Gmail or Google Calendar, allows for easier switching between contact groups, labels, and frequently contacted people.

The addition of improved sorting and filtering options is another welcome feature. Users can now view contacts by organization, label, or even activity level. This is particularly useful for professionals and businesses that deal with large amounts of data and require a more streamlined approach to contact management.

Integration with Other Google Services

Google has also made enhancements to the integration between Contacts and other Google Workspace apps. For instance, users will now see better sync between Gmail and Contacts, with real-time updates to email history, attachments, and scheduled meetings. When you view a contact, you can easily see the last email exchange, upcoming events involving that person, or shared documents.

This level of integration allows for a more seamless experience across Google’s ecosystem, reducing the need to switch between apps and windows to gather information. It’s a step toward a more cohesive and connected workspace.

Enhanced Contact Management Features

The updated web version introduces new features that make managing contacts easier and more efficient. One major addition is the ability to merge duplicates with greater accuracy. The previous duplicate detection system was clunky and often missed entries. The new system uses machine learning to better recognize duplicate contacts, even when the names or email formats slightly differ.

Additionally, contact creation and editing have been simplified. Users can now quickly add information such as birthdays, social profiles, and custom labels using a redesigned input form. There’s also a new option to “star” contacts, making it easier to prioritize and access important people in your list.

A New Focus on Privacy and Permissions

In today’s digital world, privacy and control over data are more important than ever, and Google has taken steps to address this in the new Contacts update. Users now have access to a comprehensive permissions dashboard where they can manage who has access to their contact information across shared platforms.

For example, within Google Workspace for organizations, administrators can now more effectively set rules on how contacts are shared, what fields are visible, and who can edit entries. This is especially helpful in educational and corporate environments, where contact visibility can be sensitive.

Mobile and Web Experience Alignment

For years, the mobile version of Google Contacts was far more advanced than the web counterpart. With this update, Google is finally bringing parity between mobile and web versions. Many features that were previously only available on Android devices are now accessible through the web, including contact labeling, directory views, and smart suggestions.

This alignment means users can expect a consistent experience regardless of the device they’re using. Whether updating contacts from their desktop or reviewing details on their phone, the interface and functionality will now feel more familiar and synchronized.

What Users Can Expect Next

According to Google’s announcement, the rollout will happen gradually, starting with Google Workspace users and eventually expanding to all users with Google accounts. Feedback from early adopters will likely influence future tweaks and improvements. Google has also hinted at potential additions such as AI-powered contact suggestions, automatic enrichment of contact data, and better integration with third-party apps.

Users are encouraged to explore the updated platform and make use of new features as they become available. Google is also providing help documentation and user guides to assist in the transition, particularly for those managing large contact databases.