Android’s Weather ‘app’ is going away, and what’s left behind is disappointing
Source: Android Authority
Joe Maring / Android Authority
TL;DR
- The Weather interface on Android devices is changing.
- Instead of a visually rich interface like Pixel Weather, Android devices now show generic weather search results.
- If you own a Pixel, you need not worry since Pixel Weather isn’t going anywhere.
Background
The Pixel Weather app, launched in 2024, is considered one of the best‑looking weather apps on Android. While the app remains exclusive to Pixel devices, Google previously offered a visually coherent full‑screen weather report page for other Android devices.
What’s changing
According to 9to5Google, the full‑screen weather interface is being replaced by a standard web search. When you tap the Weather icon on your Android device, you are now directed to a simpler, less visually engaging weather report.
Google began deprecating the experience a few months ago, and the change is now more widely noticed. Unlike Pixel Weather—a dedicated app—most Android users relied on a shortcut that is actually part of the Google app. The shortcut now opens a Google search for “weather” instead of the previous dedicated weather report page.
Differences in the UI
- Old interface: Separate sections for current conditions, hourly forecast, and a 10‑day outlook.
- New interface: Current and hourly forecasts are combined into a single card, with a carousel for the next 10 days beneath it.
- Graphics: The mascot Froggy remains in a small spot, but symbols for humidity, wind, and precipitation have been simplified to basic icons.
Related changes
The shift follows the recent removal of the Google Weather app from Wear OS smartwatches, except for the Pixel Watch.