How to Customize and Use Android Home Screen Search

Step by step

1. 30 sec

   Perform a standard web search

   Tap inside the search bar located at the bottom of your home screen. Type your query using the on-screen keyboard and tap the magnifying glass icon or the Enter key to view results in the Google app.

   Note: The search bar automatically suggests trending topics as you type.
2. 30 sec

   Activate voice search

   Tap the microphone icon located on the right side of the search bar. Speak your command clearly, and the device will automatically process the audio and display relevant search results.

   Note: Ensure your device microphone permissions are enabled for the Google app.
3. 45 sec

   Utilize Google Lens for visual search

   Tap the multicolored camera icon within the search bar. Point your camera at a physical object or select a screenshot from your gallery to identify items, translate text, or solve math problems.

   Note: This tool is highly effective for identifying plants, landmarks, and retail products.
4. 1 min

   Modify search bar appearance

   Open the Google app, tap your profile icon in the top right corner, and select Settings. Navigate to Search Widget and tap Customize Widget to adjust the logo style, bar shape, color, and transparency.

   Note: Changes are applied globally to the widget on your home screen.
5. 30 sec

   Remove or reposition the search bar

   Long-press the search bar until the haptic feedback triggers. Drag the widget to the top of the screen to remove it, or hold and move it to a different area of the home screen to reposition.

   Note: Some OEM launchers may require you to go into home screen settings to toggle the search bar visibility.