Google is changing the layout of its Phone app for some users. 9to5Google reports, in an article dated 19 October, that the Google Phone app beta is rolling out a Contacts tab in the bottom bar. I have only seen the headline, so I do not know whether the change is being tested with a small number of users or how widely it will be released.
App redesigns often involve moving features to make them easier to reach. A bottom navigation bar is commonly used on phones because it is within reach of the thumb, and adding Contacts as a dedicated tab could make it faster to find and call people. It might also change how the app shows recent calls, favourites and the dial pad, though I do not know the details of this particular change.
Beta features are not guaranteed to reach everyone. Google often tests designs with a limited audience and may modify or abandon them based on feedback. Features that appear in beta versions of Google apps are sometimes found by people examining the code before they are switched on, so rumours are common. Official announcements are the best guide to what will actually ship.
If you want to try beta features, you can join the Google Phone beta programme through the Play Store, but be aware that bugs may affect an app that you rely on for emergencies. For many people, the stable version is the safer choice. If you do join, make sure you know how to leave the beta and know the numbers you might need to dial directly. Watch for the wider rollout and for Google's own description of any changes to call management.
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