Chrome's New Tab Page Receives Material You Update on Android [Update]

Previously, Dynamic Color was the primary expression of Material You on Chrome for Android, but now the New Tab Page (NTP) is undergoing a redesign.

Update 1/1/24: If these Material You tweaks for the Chrome (120) New Tab Page are not visible on your Android device, you can use this flag:

chrome://flags/#enable-surface-polish

Enabled — Utilizes a 4×2 grid of favicons
Enabled Arm 1: MVP — This carousel version displays 12 frequently visited pages

As a reminder, you can use this flag — chrome://flags/#query-tiles-ntp — to eliminate previous search queries.

Image Source: 9To5Google

Original 11/13/23: Similar to Gmail and Google Chat, Chrome now features a significantly thicker search bar on the New Tab Page. It is also reminiscent of Google Search, and this change is likely to extend to all first-party Android apps. The hint text now appears bolder, and the voice microphone and Lens icons are more distinct. The Google icon has been slightly reduced.

The 4×2 grid of frequently visited sites is now housed in a rounded card, adding a distinctive touch to the section. There are similar adjustments to the Discover/Following switcher, while the feed itself remains unchanged.

Image Source: 9To5Google

While not a substantial functional change, it is noteworthy considering the frequent interaction with the NTP. In comparison to other apps, the additional padding does not significantly impact content.

The Material You redesign of Chrome’s New Tab Page is currently rolling out with version 119, although widespread availability is not yet observed. This update somewhat aligns with the full availability of the desktop Material You redesign last week.