The latest version of the app finally gets up to speed with the latest Material Design visual guidelines.

google play newsstand
Credit: Derek Walter
COMMENTS
Google Play Newsstand is the long-neglected outlier of Google’s family of Android apps. It’s finally getting some attention that makes it looks like it belongs side by side with the many other apps in the Google portfolio.

Version 4.0 starts you out with “The Briefing,” a collection of relevant articles that lead the news cycle based on your location and interests.

There are four new bottom navigation bars to help you move around the app with greater ease: For You, Library, Explore, and Read Later.

play newsstand 4.0
A new briefing and bottom navigation bars highlight the new interface.

Additionally, you’ll find trending topics when you hit the search bar and more categories when scrolling around that offer you a chance to stumble upon additional news articles. Google is also tapping into your browsing habits in an effort to give you a more personalized experience.

play newsstand search
Trending searches and splashier categories are designed to help you find news worth reading.

In all, the app looks good. You can also head to the settings and enable or turn off customized alerts based on topics you want to hear more about. Also, the app remains the digital home for any magazines that you subscribe to through the Play Store.

Version 4.0 is rolling out through the Play Store and is available now on APK Mirror.

The impact on you: This update may finally give you a reason to take another look at Google Play Newsstand. It had dropped off my radar so much I didn’t even have it installed on my Pixel until this update came along. There are some good features in this new version, though it may not be overwhelming enough to replace whatever daily habits you’ve formed in getting news from other apps.

source”cnbc”