Performance

Google Now Launcher Gets its Own Transparent Sub-Widget

Looks like Google is testing out a new sub-widget for the Google Now Launcher. As Google is prone to do, they first released a server-side version of the sub-widget to get some feedback from users. If you have Google Beta 6.6.14.21 and have Google Now Launcher installed, you should be able to run the sub-widget and try it out for yourself.

A Word on Google Now
In case you’re new to Google Now, it’s Google’s version of the digital personal assistant. Similarly to Microsoft’s Cortana and Apple’s Siri, it can be activated via voice commands and used to do things such as call someone in your contacts list or give you directions. You can also dictate text messages, perform Internet searches, or set a reminder to pull your casserole out of the oven. Google Now isn’t exactly the same as its competitors, though. The intuitive app “learns” your habits and preferences and offers functionality based on that information. You can even create “cards” with customized updates from your favorite sites and subjects.

About that Sub-Widget
The new transparent sub-widget will be located right below the search widget. Since it’s in beta testing mode, it’s not automatically available on all Android devices. If you want to check it out before the full release, you have to be a member of Google Beta. To do so, visit the Google Play store and find the Google app. Look for the option to join the beta channel. Once you do, you’ll receive any updates Google is testing or launching so you can get in on new releases like the Now sub-widget. Once enabled, the sub-widget makes it so you don’t have to swipe to the Now pane to access your Google Now features. Essentially an extension of Now, the sub-widget gives you instant access to relevant Now information like expected commute time or real-time sports updates. Google will continue to tweak the sub-widget and add more functionality before its official release.

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