Google is rolling out a major redesign for Workspace app icons

By now, you probably have noticed some new Google-related app icons on your iOS and Android devices. The company has officially introduced a fresh visual identity for its Workspace app icons, bringing a major redesign to apps including Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, Meet, Calendar and more. The update is now rolling out gradually across Android, iOS and web platforms.  

Google Is Moving Away From Its Old Four-Colour Icon Style

One of the biggest changes is Google’s decision to move away from the long-standing design approach where nearly every app icon prominently used all four Google brand colours. Google says the redesign is meant to improve recognition between apps while maintaining cohesion across the Workspace suite.

The new icons instead adopt softer gradients, cleaner shapes and more distinct colour identities for each app. For example, Google Calendar now leans heavily blue, Meet shifts toward yellow tones, while apps like Docs, Sheets and Slides retain their traditional colours but with updated layouts and styling.

The New Icons Are Tied To Google’s AI Era Push

The redesign also appears closely connected to Google’s broader AI branding direction. Reports from Google I/O 2026 noted that Workspace apps are increasingly being positioned around Gemini AI integration, including features such as Gmail Live, Docs Live and AI-assisted productivity tools.

Several observers have described the new gradient-heavy icon style as part of Google’s “Gemini era” visual identity, matching the softer and more vibrant aesthetic now appearing across Google’s AI products and branding.

User Reactions Are Extremely Mixed

As expected with major redesigns, reactions online have been sharply divided. Some users praised the new icons for looking more modern and easier to differentiate compared to the previous Workspace icons, which were often criticised for appearing too similar at a glance.

However, many users on Reddit and social media criticised the redesign for making certain apps harder to recognise, especially for long-time Workspace users accustomed to the older flat colour system. One common complaint revolves around the softer gradients and reduced visual contrast, with some users saying apps like Google Sheets, Keep and Drive now feel less instantly recognisable.

Rollout Has Already Started

Google confirmed that the redesigned Workspace icons started rolling out on 19 May 2026 and will continue expanding gradually over the coming weeks. There are no user or administrator controls for the update, meaning the new icons will automatically replace the older versions over time.

But what do you think of the new designs? Let us know on our social media channels, and stay tuned for more trending tech news at TechNave.com.