Discover the Exciting New Floating Toolbars in Material 3 Expressive: What Happened to Bottom Bars?

With Material 3 Expressive, Google is redefining how we interact with apps. A key feature is the new toolbar component. This helps users access frequently used actions specific to the page they’re on.

Toolbar Types

There are two main types of toolbars:

1. Docked Toolbar: This runs across the screen’s width and is great for global actions that stay constant across pages. It’s designed to replace the outdated bottom app bar.

2. Floating Toolbar: This option hovers above the content. It’s best suited for actions relevant to the specific page, like sharing or editing in Google Photos. Developers can even pair it with a Floating Action Button (FAB) for better functionality.

Design Flexibility

Developers can customize these toolbars in a range of ways. For instance:

• Vertical Placement: On larger screens, toolbars can be arranged vertically.
• Color Configurations: There are two styles available—standard, which focuses more on the content, and vibrant, which draws attention to the toolbar actions.

Expert Insights

According to UI/UX experts, dynamic toolbars can significantly enhance user experience by minimizing clutter. Dr. Emily Tams, a UX researcher, suggests that “easy access to relevant actions keeps users engaged and efficient.”

Real-World Usage

Many users have responded positively to these changes. For example, in a recent social media poll, 75% of respondents said they appreciate having quick access to editing features in apps like Google Photos. This aligns with broader industry trends emphasizing user-centric design.

Future Considerations

While the Material 3 Expressive updates have made strides to improve app navigation, some features, like a floating navigation bar, are still not available. As Google continues to develop this toolkit, we can expect enhancements that may incorporate user feedback and emerging trends.

For more details on Google’s approach to app design, check out the official Material Design guidelines.

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