I've been using the new Google Messages UI; one change is driving me crazy

Google Messages has been a frequently used app for the author, with many positive aspects. They appreciate the swipe-to-reply gesture, similar to WhatsApp. However, they feel frustrated by recent changes they don't understand. One such change is the new design of pinned conversations. Previously, pinning a chat moved it to the top with a small icon.

Now, Google has adopted an iMessage-like interface, featuring large circular icons with photos and names. While these new icons make pinned chats more recognizable, they take up more screen space and limit the number of conversations that can be pinned. Additionally, the new layout makes it harder to see the last message from a pinned chat on the home screen if it hasn't received new messages recently.

The author suggests Google could have improved the design by allowing users to swipe through pinned conversations or offering it as an option. They also appreciate the redesigned search button at the bottom, which collapses into a smaller icon as you scroll, making it more accessible. However, they find the disappearance of the Gemini button annoying, as it's a feature they never used.

The author hopes Google will provide an option to revert to the previous layout to cater to users who may miss it.