Google is rolling out a revamped Search widget for its Android app, positioning the customizable shortcut more prominently on the right side of the widget. This update, currently available in beta version 16.17.38, introduces new shortcut options like AI Mode, Saved, and News, expanding the choices to a total of eleven. The redesigned widget requires a minimum width of 4×1 to effectively display all its elements. Importantly, the rollout seems to be a server-side switch, which means users might not need to rely solely on the version update to access the new features.
Earlier this year, in February, Google significantly enhanced the Search widget’s functionality, allowing users to add custom shortcuts. This feature had been in development since at least September 2024 and aims to provide quick access to commonly-used tools like Translate, Song search, and Weather. The new beta version, as highlighted by 9to5Google, features a thickened pill design and a repositioned customizable shortcut. While the Google app logo remains on the left and the Lens and mic icons are preserved on the right, the custom shortcut now appears in a distinct circular button on the far right, elevating its visual prominence.
Additionally, the update brings in new shortcuts, including AI Mode, Saved, and News, contributing to a total of eleven options. Testing on seven devices with the same Google account revealed that the new UI only appeared on one device, indicating that the rollout is indeed part of a server-side switch rather than a straightforward app update. Users will need to ensure their widget is at least 4×1 to view all elements properly, as a compact 3×1 widget will not display the custom shortcut.
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