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How to Switch Back to the Old Google Dialer UI on Your Android Phone

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Don’t like the new Google Phone redesign? Here are safe ways to restore the classic look—plus pros/cons, FAQs, and troubleshooting.

Updated: Read time: ~6 min

Before You Start

  • Verify your device runs a recent Android version and that Google Phone is your dialer.
  • Back up critical data (contacts sync via Google Contacts).
  • Be aware you may lose new features (e.g., UI changes, spam protection updates) until you update again.
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Security tip: If you choose the APK route, only download from reputable sources and ensure the APK matches your device’s architecture. Older versions may lack the latest security patches.

Method 1: Uninstall Updates from Google Phone

  1. Open Settings on your Android device.
  2. Go to Apps → See all apps → Phone (Google).
  3. Tap the ⋮ (three‑dot menu) in the top‑right.
  4. Select Uninstall updates and confirm.
  5. Open the Phone app to confirm the classic UI is restored.

Stop auto‑updates (optional): In the Play Store app page for Google Phone, tap ⋮ and uncheck Enable auto update.

Method 2: Install an Older APK Version (Advanced)

  1. Download a previous release of Google Phone that is compatible with your device.
  2. Open the APK and grant permission for Install unknown apps if prompted.
  3. After install, open Play Store → Google Phone page → ⋮ → disable Enable auto update.
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Tip: If the app downgrades fail with an error, first Uninstall updates (Method 1), then try installing the older APK again.

Method 3: Try Alternative Dialer Apps

If you prefer a simple, classic interface without manual downgrades, consider third‑party dialers that mimic the older look and feel.

  • True Phone Dialer — Highly customizable, familiar layout.
  • Simple Dialer — Lightweight, privacy‑friendly, minimal UI.
  • Drupe Dialer — Contact‑centric design with handy gestures.

Note: Feature availability (call recording, spam protection, etc.) varies by app, region, and device OEM policies.

Pros & Cons of Reverting

Pros

  • Familiar, streamlined UI.
  • Potentially better performance on older devices.
  • Avoids disruptive UI experiments.

Cons

  • Misses new features and bug fixes.
  • Possible compatibility issues with future Android updates.
  • Security patches may be delayed on older versions.

Troubleshooting

  • Downgrade not allowed: Clear Play Store cache/data, uninstall updates again, then retry APK install.
  • Default dialer changed: Go to Settings → Apps → Default apps → Phone and select your preferred dialer.
  • Crashes after install: Clear Phone app cache/data or pick a different older build compatible with your architecture (arm64‑v8a/x86_64, etc.).

FAQs

Is it safe to install an older Google Phone APK?

Yes—if sourced from reputable repositories and verified. Keep in mind that older versions may lack the latest security patches.

Will uninstalling updates remove my call history?

Your call history and contacts are typically preserved. You’ll only lose features introduced in newer updates until you update again.

How do I stop the app from auto‑updating again?

Open the Play Store app page for Google Phone, tap ⋮, then uncheck Enable auto update. Optionally adjust global auto‑update settings in Play Store settings.

My OEM forces a different dialer—what can I do?

Some brands control the default dialer for system features. You can try setting Google Phone as default in Settings → Apps → Default apps → Phone, or continue with the OEM dialer if Google Phone isn’t fully supported.

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