In what looks like preparation for its upcoming Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold, Google has updated its Recorder app that brings a new UI, perfect for large-screen Android devices. Although both devices won't be released until June, the new Recorder update is rolling out now from the Google Play Store and comes in at version 4.2.20230427.530752515.

While the change might look similar to what's available now, there are some notable changes once you start doing a deep dive into the updated app. Previously, the Google Recorder simply blew up the landscape interface found on smartphones, but now, there is a completely new two column layouts, bringing more information on screen at one time. This new look applies when playing back audio and also when recording it.

The change was spotted by 9to5Google, which also points out that the Floating Action Button (FAB) for initializing a recording has been relocated to the bottom right corner, which should make it feel more natural when navigating on a larger screen. The newly updated UI will now show the waveform of the recording, along with the transcript of the recording side-by-side. Previously, users had to choose between the waveform or the transcription.

Google Recorder update showing waveforms and transcription on one view
Source: 9to5Google

In addition, the playback controls and editing tools have been moved to the lower portion of the screen, again, making it much easier to navigate around the app. Since there aren't any Pixel devices with large screens available yet, the source recommends that if you want to try it out, you can head to the Developer options and increase the DPI to see it for yourself. Of course, if you're not willing to test it, you can also wait to see the update when the Pixel Tablet and Pixel Fold go live next month.

  • Docked Pixel Tablet in Hazel colorway on transparent background.
    Google Pixel Tablet
    Brand
    Google
    Storage
    128GB or 256GB UFS 3.1
    CPU
    Tensor G2
    Memory
    8GB LPDDR5
    Operating System
    Android 13
    Battery
    27Wh

    Google has re-entered the tablet space after a while, and its all-new Pixel Tablet marks a great start. It features a large 10.95-inch display, and flagship Tensor G2 SoC.

    $499 at Amazon $499 at Best Buy $499 at Google Store
  • Porcelain Google Pixel Fold on transparent background.
    Google Pixel Fold
    Brand
    Google
    SoC
    Tensor G2 with Titan M2 co-processor
    Display
    Front: 5.8-inch 2092x1080p OLED @120Hz Internal: 7.6-inch 2208x1840p OLED @120Hz
    RAM
    12GB LPDDR5
    Storage
    256GB, 512GB UFS 3.1
    Battery
    4,821mAh

    The Google Pixel Fold is a feature-rich device with a compact form factor, flagship hardware, impressive cameras, and a phenomenal software experience. 

    $1799 at Amazon $1799 at Google Store