Home
News
You are here

Google Files App gets new "Recents" carousel for faster file access

0comments

By Johanna Romero

Published: Jul 29, 2024, 7:23 PM

Google Files App gets new "Recents" carousel for faster file access

The Files by Google app on Android has undergone an interesting change to its "Recents" feature, making it faster and more convenient for users to access their most recent files.

Previously, "Recents" displayed folders like Camera, Screenshots, and Downloads, with a 2x2 grid providing a small preview of each folder's contents. To access a specific file, users had to tap on a folder and navigate to the desired item within.

Now, with the latest beta version of Files by Google, "Recents" has been transformed into a carousel of rectangular cards that directly show a preview of each individual file, including images and documents. This change eliminates the need to navigate through folders, making it faster and easier for users to find and open recent files.

Old Files by Google "Recents" view versus the new carousel | Images credit — 9to5Google

Each card in the carousel displays the file's name and extension at the bottom, along with a three-dot overflow menu that allows users to quickly share, delete, or add the file to starred items. The carousel shows 10 items at a time, and users can tap "See all" in the top-right corner to access a new "Recents" tabs view that organizes files by their respective folders.

This update to Files by Google's "Recents" feature is similar to the carousel design that Google Photos uses for its Memories feature. It prioritizes speed and convenience, allowing users to access recent files directly from the carousel without having to navigate through folders first.

This new "Recents" carousel is currently available in version 1.4374.x of Files by Google, which is the latest beta version. After updating to this version, it may take a moment for the new view to populate.

This change represents a significant improvement in the user experience for Files by Google, making it more efficient and user-friendly for users to access their recent files. I expect that it will be a welcome change by those that are regular users of the app, which hasn't seen any significant UI changes in a while.

$349

$799

$450 off (56%)

Mint Mobile now sells the Google Pixel 10 with a massive $450 discount. The promo is available on select color variants with 128GB of storage. You also get a 12-month unlimited data plan for $180 instead of $360.

Buy at Mint Mobile

$524

$999

$475 off (48%)

Grab the pro-grade, compact Pixel 10 Pro at Mint Mobile with a 12-month unlimited plan, and you can save a huge $475. The data plan comes with a discount, too: 50% off, to be exact.

Buy at Mint Mobile

$499

$1199

$700 off (58%)

The high-end Gemini AI-enhanced Pixel 10 Pro XL is now available with a mind-blowing discount. You can now save $700 on the phone, plus 50% off unlimited 12-month plans.

Buy at Mint Mobile

$1399

$1799

$400 off (22%)

The foldable Pixel 10 Pro Fold is another standout holiday offer. Right now, you can get the device for $400 off at Mint Mobile. On top of that, you save $180 on 12-month unlimited data plans.

Buy at Mint Mobile

View Full Bio

Johanna 'Jojo the Techie' is a skilled mobile technology expert with over 15 years of hands-on experience, specializing in the Google ecosystem and Pixel devices. Known for her user-friendly approach, she leverages her vast tech support background to provide accessible and insightful coverage on latest technology trends. As a recognized thought leader and former member of #TeamPixel, Johanna ensures she stays at the forefront of Google services and products, making her a reliable source for all things Pixel and ChromeOS.

Read the latest from Johanna Romero