"Google's Expanded Search Bars Enhance User Experience in Gmail and Other Apps"
The search bars in Gmail and other Google apps, including Google Chat, have been made bigger to comply with the latest Material 3 design guidelines. The new search bar is taller and 56dp in height, with more padding and altered coloring. While it doesn't result in a functional difference, it aligns with Material You's preference for more spacious components. Other Google apps are expected to follow suit in updating their search fields.