Google updates interface of Drive on the web

14 May 2018

Digital & Tech

Following the revamp of Gmail last month, Google is rolling out a new interface for its Google Drive web client. The update brings the interface in line with the company’s latest Material Design principles, entailing a brighter appearance and more rounded elements. It is designed to be a more “responsive and efficient experience”, while feeling “cohesive” with other G Suite apps.

The first thing you might notice is the pill-shaped “New” button with a colourful plus icon, which is used to open a Doc, Sheet or Slide, or initiate an upload. Meanwhile, the site’s background is now pure white rather than light grey.

Google Drive interface changes — Comparisons of various screens and elements in the old and new interface

Other changes noted by Google include:

The logo in the top left has been changed to the Google Drive logo
Custom company logos appear on the top right
The Settings and Help Center icons have been moved in line with the search bar
Headers are set in Google’s proprietary typeface, Product Sans

Google Drive new home screen with info pane open — New home screen with info pane open

Despite some visual tweaks, Google assures that there’s “no change in functionality”. As of writing, the update is expected to have rolled out to all users – why not have a look and tell us what you think?