Google Phone App Introduces "Keep Portrait Mode" Feature

Google has officially launched a new feature in its Phone app called "Keep portrait mode on calls," designed to prevent the automatic transition to landscape orientation during phone calls. This update follows a testing phase that took place in December and January, where user feedback highlighted the inconvenience of the previous landscape mode, which displayed a two-column interface that included the calling card, contact details, and call controls.

Google Phone App Launches ‘Keep Portrait Mode’ Setting on AndroidGoogle Phone app rolls out ‘Keep portrait mode’ call setting on AndroidGoogle admits just how confusing Phone app landscape support has been

The introduction of the "Keep portrait mode" setting aims to enhance the user experience, particularly for those who prefer holding their phones upright during calls. The landscape mode, while functional on larger screens, proved to be problematic for many users who did not have their auto-rotate settings disabled. The new feature is enabled by default, allowing users to maintain portrait orientation without needing to adjust settings further. However, users who prefer the landscape mode can disable this option through the app's settings.

Google Phone App Launches ‘Keep Portrait Mode’ Setting on AndroidGoogle Phone app rolls out ‘Keep portrait mode’ call setting on AndroidGoogle admits just how confusing Phone app landscape support has been

To activate the "Keep portrait mode" feature, users can follow these steps: open the Phone app, tap the menu icon (three vertical bars), select 'Settings,' then 'Display options,' and toggle the 'Keep portrait mode' option. The feature is being gradually rolled out with version 206 of the Google Phone app, and some users may need to force stop the app to see the update.

Google Phone App Launches ‘Keep Portrait Mode’ Setting on AndroidGoogle Phone app rolls out ‘Keep portrait mode’ call setting on AndroidGoogle admits just how confusing Phone app landscape support has been

Google acknowledged the confusion surrounding the initial introduction of the landscape mode and the subsequent rollout of the portrait lock. A representative stated, “We’re happy to share that a new Keep portrait mode setting is now available. Based on user feedback, your calls are now default to portrait mode, so you don’t need to take further action to keep this active.” This statement reflects Google's responsiveness to user concerns and highlights the importance of community feedback in shaping app functionality.

Google Phone App Launches ‘Keep Portrait Mode’ Setting on AndroidGoogle admits just how confusing Phone app landscape support has beenGoogle Phone app rolls out ‘Keep portrait mode’ call setting on Android

Despite the positive reception of the new feature, some users expressed frustration over the initial introduction of the landscape mode, questioning its necessity and the lack of clarity from Google during the transition. The confusion surrounding the feature's availability in beta testing led to mixed reactions, with some users feeling that the landscape mode was an unnecessary addition.

Google admits just how confusing Phone app landscape support has been

As the "Keep portrait mode" feature continues to roll out, users can expect further updates and enhancements to the Google Phone app. Google is likely to monitor user feedback closely to ensure that the app meets the evolving needs of its user base.

Google Phone App Launches ‘Keep Portrait Mode’ Setting on Android

In summary, the "Keep portrait mode on calls" feature represents a significant adjustment in the Google Phone app, aimed at improving user experience by addressing concerns related to automatic landscape rotation during calls.

Google Phone App Launches ‘Keep Portrait Mode’ Setting on Android