Google shows off first look at Google Search 4.0 with Material Design

Google is beginning to roll out Google Search version 4.0 with Material Design. The new update brings bold colors, fluid animations, and simplified layouts to the Search app. Along with the new visuals, Google has packed in a few other goodies with the update.

First off, the company announced that the Nexus 6, Nexus 9, and the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 will all now have the ability to use the “Okay, Google” voice prompt while the screen is off and the phone is unplugged. We knew that this feature was coming with Lollipop, but this is the first we’ve heard of devices utilizing the feature.

The Search app is also getting smarter (and a tiny bit creepier) when it comes to reminders. If you’ve neglected to respond to an email, or forgotten to add an event to your calendar, Search will try to save you from forgetting. Once an event is created, such as “dinner with Chris” or “drinks with Susan”, you’ll be prompted to add it to your calendar, on top of a handy reminder so you don’t forget. Also, each reminder is getting its own Google Now card, so you can more easily keep track of events and to-do list items.

Google is now making it easier to find what you need inside other applications, as they’re finally making official voice search in third party apps. In the company’s example, simply say, Okay, Google, search Tumblr for “Things Organized Neatly”. Your phone will then open Tumblr, and go right to the search results within the app. Other apps mentioned with support for this feature is TripAdvisor, TuneIn, Trulia, and YouTube.

Another fun little prompt added to the update is “Okay, Google, flip a coin.” Google will help you make a decision based on what options you give it. Pretty cool, huh? The update should be rolling out soon to devices running Android 4.1+. Are you excited for the update? What’s your favorite new feature?