Google is phasing out its native weather application on Android devices, replacing it with a search-based experience, a move that began subtly in recent months and is now gaining momentum. Users are increasingly being redirected to Google Search results when tapping the weather icon on their home screens, rather than launching a dedicated application.
The weather interface, previously integrated directly into the Google app and accessible via a sun and cloud icon, had turn into a standard feature for many Android users. It provided at-a-glance information including current temperature, daily forecasts, and “feels like” temperatures, alongside detailed charts for wind speed, humidity, UV index, and atmospheric pressure. The application didn’t require installation through the Google Play Store, making it a readily available weather solution for a large number of smartphone owners.
According to reports from users and observations by 9to5Google, tapping the weather shortcut now opens a Google Search page for “weather.” While the core information – temperature, forecasts, and other meteorological data – remains present, it is presented within the framework of a web search results page. Scrolling down reveals the familiar blue links to external websites, disrupting the immersive experience of the previous interface.
Google has redesigned the search page to incorporate elements of the original app, including the “Froggy” visual and hourly forecast carousels. The company is also utilizing AI Overviews to summarize current weather conditions. However, the transition to a web-based format has been criticized for sacrificing the fluidity and native experience of the previous application, as noted by Frandroid.
The shift is part of a broader trend by Google to centralize its services and streamline maintenance, prioritizing its search engine and potentially integrating its AI capabilities, Gemini. This decision mirrors a similar move to consolidate other features within the Google app.
Users of Google Pixel devices are exempt from this change. They continue to have access to the dedicated “Pixel Weather” application, described as modern and feature-rich. The rollout of the change is gradual and expected to continue over the coming months, according to reports.
