Phones with Android 4.4 up get Google App v5.3; Now on Tap for Google Now available only for Android M Preview 3 users

By Staff Writer

Sep 21, 2015 11:58 AM EDT

Phones running Android 4.4 and above can get the Google App v5.3 update, with Now on Tap functionality for Google Now available only for Android M Developer Preview 3 users. The update gives Google Now a new look and an easy-search feature using a simple long-press trick.

Phones and other devices that run Android 4.4 up can receive the update roll out as per Tech Times. In a previous statement, Google said it will not launch Now on Tap feature in any Android M developer preview versions. However, the Google App v5.3 update brings Now on Tap bonus for Google Now to Android M Preview 3 users.

Google Now is a part of Google App and now integrates Now on Tap function. The v5.3 update gives Google Now launcher a whole new look and feel, with a new Google Now screen, colorful logos, and a vertical app drawer.

Android Police described a simple trick on Google Now that works on v5.3 but not in earlier versions. By long-pressing the app drawer, users can bring up the app search box and virtual keyboard. With these, they can easily search for apps, which can prove helpful if the user keeps numerous apps on his or her phone.

Now on Tap provides contextual information and possible actions based on gathered data, according to 9to5Google. It makes a smartphone even smarter, offering intuitive choices and responses to the user. The feature allows for searching without having to leave an application and making reminders in Google Keep.

Users who are not running Developer Preview 3 may still get the update but will not be able to experience everything it has to offer especially the Google Now on Tap function. However, the update will let them experience the new Google Now launcher.

Some users have complained of experiencing bugs and issues when launching Google Now. They get an error message saying "Google Now can't be reached at the moment".

The Google App v5.3 update is available on Google Play Store and its APK file can be downloaded on APK Mirror. In a few more days, Android M will come bringing with it the full Google Now on Tap functionality to Android devices.

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