Google Voice 2019.14 adds larger messages font, renames menus [APK Insight]

In addition to the cloud telephony service now properly supporting Android Auto, there are a handful of small UI tweaks to Google Voice for Android this week. Version 2019.14 brings a larger font to conversations, and renames several parts of the app.

About APK Insight: In this ‘APK Insight’ post, we’ve decompiled the latest version of an application that Google uploaded to the Play Store. When we decompile these files (called APKs, in the case of Android apps), we’re able to see various lines of code within that hint at possible future features. Keep in mind that Google may or may not ever ship these features, and our interpretation of what they are may be imperfect. We’ll try to enable those that are closer to being finished, however, to show you how they’ll look in the case that they do ship. With that in mind, read on.

Larger font

One tweak introduced with Google Voice 2019.14.240805279 is a larger font in the conversation view. The same typeface is leveraged, but noticeably bigger that even short messages are likely to take up two lines. This larger sizing is also applied to emoji. As part of the new look, time stamps are now displayed in a slightly smaller font.

Updated Search hint

The Search field hint that appears after the logo animates out when users first open the app has been updated from “Search messages & contacts” to just “Search Google Voice.”

Call forwarding

In settings, the “Incoming calls” menu has been renamed to “Call forwarding.”

Proper playback and replies in Android Auto

How to update?

Google Voice 2019.14.240805279 is rolling out now via the Play Store. We do not post APKs to download directly given the legal challenges associated with copyright and possibility of removal. Meanwhile, that model is perilous given Android App Bundles and Google Play’s Dynamic Delivery.

Thanks to JEB Decompiler, which some APK Insight teardowns benefit from.