How to Revert to the Old Dialer Android UI: A Step-by-Step Guide
Android users who dislike the new dialer UI update can easily revert to the classic, familiar interface. The recent updates to the Google Phone dialer app introduced a redesigned look and new features which many users find confusing or less user-friendly. Fortunately, rolling back to the old dialer UI is straightforward. This article provides quick, effective steps to restore the old Android dialer look on your phone.
Why Revert to the Old Dialer UI?
The updated dialer features a fresh design inspired by Material You styling and Android 16 changes, including different button placements, gestures, and call screens. However, many users prefer the simplicity, ease of navigation, and familiarity of the previous version. Those especially affected include older users and anyone who finds the new interface disruptive to their calling experience.
How to Switch Back to the Old Android Dialer UI
Follow these simple steps to revert to the classic Google Phone app dialer on most Android devices like Samsung, OnePlus, Pixel, Xiaomi, and more:
- Disable Auto-Updates for the Phone App
- Open Google Play Store
- Tap your profile icon > Settings > Network Preferences > Auto-update apps
- Select "Don't auto-update apps" to prevent automatic installation of the new dialer UI update. - Uninstall Updates to Restore Factory Version
- Go to your phone's Settings > Apps (or Manage Apps)
- Find and select "Phone" or "Google Phone" app
- Tap the three-dot menu and choose "Uninstall updates"
- This will revert the app to its original factory version with the old UI. - Clear Cache and App Data
- While still in the Phone app settings, go to "Storage"
- Tap "Clear Cache" and then "Clear Data"
- Don’t worry; this won't delete your contacts but will remove any leftover data from the new update to prevent conflicts. - Restart the Phone App
- Launch the Phone app again
- You should now see the old, classic dialer UI restored.
Alternative: Use Your Device Manufacturer’s Dialer
If you prefer not to disable updates (which can compromise app security and bug fixes), consider using the default dialer from your phone’s manufacturer. Brands like Samsung, OnePlus, Xiaomi, and Realme provide their own dialer apps, which you can set as default to avoid the Google Dialer's new UI.
Important Notes
- Disabling updates may prevent important security patches from installing.
- Your call history or custom dialer settings might get reset upon uninstalling updates.
- This method works mainly for the Google Phone app; other dialers might have different update mechanisms.
Reverting to the old dialer UI is the best way for many users to regain a simple, user-friendly calling experience until Google offers in-app options for customizing the dialer interface.