Google’s iOS app received a significant update today, introducing several new features that enhance user experience without exiting the app. Here’s what’s new in version 22.0.
## Native YouTube Support
Users can now watch YouTube videos directly in the Google app without needing to launch a new web page or open the separate YouTube app. If your search results include a carousel of YouTube videos on the front page, tapping on one will play it instantly within the app’s native YouTube player.
Interestingly, selecting a video from the ‘Videos’ tab will not open it within the app. These videos still need to be viewed in the YouTube app. The new feature appears to be limited to video cards on the front page of search results.
## Hotel Searches
The update has introduced enhancements for hotel searches. Now, when searching for a hotel, expanding the Knowledge Graph box reveals a new section for rates and booking information.
## Restaurant Searches
Restaurant searches have also been updated. Knowledge Graph cards for restaurants now include a new ‘Menu’ section. Tapping on the menu option will load it within the app without redirecting to an external page.
## Unannounced Feature: Built-in Gboard
Although not mentioned in the official changelog, a fourth unannounced feature has been discovered. The updated Google’s iOS app allows users to change their keyboard to Google’s Gboard without needing to install the third-party keyboard separately.
This can be enabled by going to Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards > Add New Keyboard > select Google. With this update, having both the Google app and Gboard installed becomes redundant as Gboard is now integrated into the Google app.
