14 DAY TRIAL // Owners of devices running under Android 4.1 and up can now download and install a new flavor of the Google Now (Google Search) application, meant to bring some Android 4.4 KitKat features to them.
The updated application is currently available for download as version 3.1.8, featuring a variety of UI enhancements, along with new refresh animations, and more.
One of the main enhancements included in the update is the availability of the Google Experience Launcher (GEL) for Android 4.1 and up devices.
As Android Police notes, as soon as the Google Now 3.1.8 is installed, users should also grab the Google Experience Launcher APK and enjoy its functionality even if they are not on Android 4.4 KitKat.
However, it seems that transparency in the navigation and status bars won’t be available for devices that are not employing the latest flavor of the mobile platform yet.
Google Search for Android also brings along a series of new cards, such as the Website update card, News topic card, and What to watch card.
Additionally, the application also brings traffic incidents using Waze on maps, as well as recurring reminders.
Other enhancements packed inside the new Google Now version include real-time scores for rugby teams, along with a full-on conversation mode.
Moreover, the software now provides users with info on when their packages are ready for in-store pickup, and allows them to bring back dismissed cards by hitting the Undo button.
Also part of the update, Google delivered reworked card settings and toggles, now offering them in the form of menus and yes/no questions, which are accessible through the wand at the bottom of Search.
The new app has already started to arrive on Android 4.1+ devices over-the-air, and it should reach all of them in a matter of days. If you want to grab the update earlier, you can download Google Search for Android 3.1.8.914827 from Softpedia today.