Recently, Google introduced some changes with the release of Android 16 Beta 1.1, which may appeal to some users while making the home-screen feel more crowded for others. The tech giant has rolled out a new dedicated AI Mode shortcut in the Pixel Launcher’s search bar, aiming to enhance its prominence in the user interface.
Traditionally, the Pixel Launcher featured a straightforward dual-shortcut setup, with Google Lens and voice search as the only options since September 2021, alongside the ‘G’ logo. However, last week marked a shift with the inclusion of the AI Mode shortcut, aligning the Pixel Launcher’s design with that of the Google app’s search widget.
The trend of ‘widget-ification’ continues as Google was spotted in May testing a new look for the search widget of the Google app. The redesign incorporates a segmented section for a chosen shortcut, a feature that is now being extended to the Pixel Launcher’s search bar.
In the latest Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update, some users have reported a segmented search bar which differs from previous versions. In this design, the AI Mode button occupies its own distinct circular area next to the search bar, which is housed in a wider, dynamically themed pill shape.
It’s important to note, however, that this updated design does not allow for any shortcut customization. Unlike the Google app’s widget, where users can switch shortcuts for options like Weather or News, the Pixel Launcher currently provides no flexibility in this regard.
While the redesigned Google app search bar widget is still in beta, a stable rollout is anticipated soon, whereas the changes to the Pixel Launcher may take until September to be fully implemented.
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