Abstract
- Pixel Launcher strikes a balance between customization and functionality, with easy app search and a new swipe gesture for faster access to the search bar.
- Android 15 DP2 reveals updated settings for the Pixel Launcher, hinting at future improvements like displaying longer app names.
- Although the Pixel Launcher is streamlined, minor tweaks like displaying longer app names could improve the user experience in the upcoming Android 15 release.
Regardless of the custom Android skin you’re using, the user experience on even the best Android phones can feel like a letdown if the launcher isn’t perfect. If you’re a personalization enthusiast, some of our favorite custom launchers on Android may be your last hope for survival. Google’s own Pixel Launcher isn’t perfect, but it strikes a good balance between personalization and functionality. The latest updates in Android 15 make the launcher even better with functional improvements in the app drawer.
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Which launcher experience do you prefer?
Pixel Launcher isn’t flawless, but it’s synonymous with the stock Android experience, and several custom launchers also try to emulate that look and feel. Current versions of the launcher make it easy to find the apps you’re looking for with minimal effort. If you have a Google search bar at the bottom of your screen, you can tap it once and type the name of the app, or you can swipe up on the home screen to open an alphabetical app drawer. Diving into the launcher settings reveals that Pixel Launcher has an option below Initial settings→ Search settings → Swipe up to start searchingto bring up the keyboard search bar when you swipe up on the home screen.
Screenshots from Android 15 DP2 reveal Pixel Launcher’s new settings page
The option saves you a few taps and allows quick access to the search bar with a simple gesture. The switch makes sense below Search settings submenu, but Android expert Mishaal Rahman spotted the change in the latest Android 15 Developer Preview 2 (DP2). The Swipe up to start searching the switch is now located below the new one Application list settings submenu in Initial settings.
However, it doesn’t make sense to create a new submenu for just one switch. Rahman says Google may eventually update this new settings page to include the new one Show long app names ability to display app name using two lines in search results as well as app drawer. While this isn’t a new setting and is easily found in custom launchers, Pixel Launcher only truncates app names longer than nine characters.
Let’s hope that option is included in the upcoming Android 15 release as it would make the Pixel Launcher more modern. Also, it’s never fun to guess app names if you haven’t used them in a while. Android 15 is packed with a few other minor improvements and certainly seems like an exciting release to look forward to.
Android 15 DP2 arrives ahead of next month’s open beta: Here’s what’s new
Better satellite connectivity and NFC. plus more applications for the cover screen on foldable devices