Latest news with #homeScreen
Android Authority
4 days ago
- Android Authority
Google is spicing up Gemini's home screen with a visual revamp (APK teardown)
Ryan Haines / Android Authority TL;DR Google is working on a new tweak to the Gemini home screen. The change expands the input box and adds a shadow. Corners now only appear on top of the input box. A few weeks ago, we told you about a change that could be coming to the Gemini home screen. That tweak would make the home screen a little more like ChatGPT's by adding suggestion chips. But it looks like that may not be the only alteration in store for the page. Authority Insights story on Android Authority. Discover You're reading anstory on Android Authority. Discover Authority Insights for more exclusive reports, app teardowns, leaks, and in-depth tech coverage you won't find anywhere else. An APK teardown helps predict features that may arrive on a service in the future based on work-in-progress code. However, it is possible that such predicted features may not make it to a public release. The current version of the Gemini home screen is fairly empty. There's a friendly greeting with a rectangle-shaped input box below, and not much else to speak of. While this look comes off as a little barren, it looks like Google plans to spice up the home screen a bit. In addition to adding suggestion chips, the company appears to also be tweaking the input box. While investigating the Google app (version we spotted that the input box now stretches across the screen. The bottom corners are also gone, leaving only the corners at the top. You'll also notice in the screenshots below that there's now a shadow at the top of the box. Old UI New UI New UI New UI In our previous APK teardown, we mentioned that the suggestion chips seemed to be early in design. Here, we can see that the design has been smoothed out from rounded rectangles to ovals. As for the greeting, Google has slightly changed the gradient style so that less colors are shown. This is similar to what we saw last month. On a device with physical rounded corners, this new UI change looks pretty nice. It's unclear when Google plans to roll out this update. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
Android Authority
17-06-2025
- Android Authority
This iPhone feature is the only reason I haven't switched back to a Pixel phone
Ryan Haines / Android Authority I often find myself shuffling between phones — sometimes as frequently as switching handsets every week. And I make sure to replicate my home screen layout on each Android phone so that I don't feel unfamiliar when switching and my muscle memory doesn't act up either. But every single one of those Android phones teases my inner urge to have everything look visually organized. When you have a bunch of widgets — all different shapes and sizes — plastered across multiple home pages, it ends up looking haphazard, no matter how much you try. I flinch every time I glance at my home screen on Android, and that's one big reason I dread going back to a Pixel as my primary phone. The iPhone is known to be very controlling about how things appear on the screen, even for third-party apps and widgets. And in this case, I honestly think it's a good thing. My home screen on the iPhone looks far more organized and pleasing to the eye just because of one feature: stacked widgets. With them, I can do a lot more on the same screen size instead of filling up ten home pages to house all my widgets. Ryan Haines / Android Authority Yes, I am a widget freak. But more than that, I'm someone who's a sucker for clean aesthetics — and I flinch every time I glance at my home screen on Android. It's something you stare at all day long, and that's one big reason I dread going back to a Pixel as my primary phone — even though Android 16 has me seriously tempted. Do you want to see stacked widgets on Pixels? 1 votes Yes 0 % No 100 % Android vs iOS: Stacked widgets edition Stacked widgets are an ingenious way of saving space — and saving me from having to swipe through endless pages. I check traffic using the Google Maps widget twice a day and run my robot vacuum once in the morning. I do need those shortcuts, but they don't have to be in my face all the time, right? On my Pixel, each widget occupies a permanent spot, whether I need it at the moment or not. And the inconsistency is just jarring, with different shapes, sizes, and corner radii that turn the whole screen into visual clutter. My LG AC widget awkwardly sits in a 1×1 slot while another smart home control eats up a 2×2 grid — both doing the same thing. It's insufferably chaotic, at least to my nit-picking eyes. iPhone iPhone Pixel OnePlus In comparison, my home screen setup on the iPhone 16 Pro Max looks cleaner and calming to my nerves. All my smart home products are stacked into a single widget — whether it's an LG device or a no-name smart plug. I just scroll through the stack to find the one I'm looking for. The same goes for my search stack. I use multiple search and AI tools — Google, Perplexity, and ChatGPT — and I can cycle through them to start an instant search without each one separately hogging screen space. More importantly, I can turn these into smart stacks — something iPhones have handled well even before AI became a cool buzzword. My phone now surfaces the world clock widget at the same time each day before I call my loved ones halfway across the world, while the stock market widget quietly disappears after the evening frenzy checks during a market crash. That's not to say Apple's implementation is flawless. For instance, I wish Apple would offer a smaller size (say a 2×1 grid, vertically or horizontally), especially for widgets that only need a single tap. But still, there's so much value in stacked widgets that I didn't fully grasp until I had them — and now I just want Google to bring its own version to Pixels. What would Pixels need to do? Stacked widgets may look simple, but on Android, they'd be a pain to implement, mostly because of fragmentation. Google would need to take up the herculean task of aligning its millions of developers to make widgets in standardized sizes. But even that won't solve everything, because Android lets you customize grid sizes on your home screen, which complicates things further. Ryan Haines / Android Authority Frankly, if Google hasn't been able to get app developers to adopt themed app icons — with many still stubbornly clinging to their colorful logos — I'm not too confident it can pull off universal widget sizing, at least soon enough. But there's still hope. Third-party developers have found workarounds, which makes me believe I'm not the only one frustrated by this gap. Your current options When it comes to Android, I am married to Pixel phones for their clean (read: superior) experience and day-one OS updates. So I want stacked widgets on my Pixel by default, without resorting to launchers or UI hacks. But if you aren't as stubborn as I am, you've got plenty of options. Samsung added native support for stacked widgets a few One UI versions ago — so technically, Android has had this feature for a while now. It's just the Pixel that's missing in action. Andy Walker / Android Authority And others aren't entirely out of luck either. You can install third-party launchers like Action, Smart Launcher, or Niagara to get a stacked widget experience that I have been craving on Pixels. Just know that most of these solutions only let you stack similarly sized widgets — or stretch them awkwardly to fit, resulting in zoomed-in content or excessive padding. So these solutions are far from perfect, but they are still better than nothing. There's so much value in stacked widgets that I didn't fully grasp until I had them — and now I just want Google to bring its own version to Pixels. The only real fix is Google stepping in. It recently did something similar with Live Updates — bringing features together from Samsung, OnePlus, and other OEMs into a unified experience. So yeah, it could do the same for widgets if it really tried. Until that happens, I'll keep sighing every time I swipe past the visual mess on my Pixel while quietly enjoying the neat order on my iPhone.
Geeky Gadgets
11-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Your Dream Phone Home Screen in Under 5 Minutes (Seriously!)
Customizing your phone's home screen is an effective way to enhance both its functionality and visual appeal. By making a few intentional changes, you can create a personalized interface that reflects your style while improving usability. The detailed video below from Sam Beckman outlines practical steps to help you design a clean, organized, and visually cohesive home screen—all in under five minutes. Watch this video on YouTube. Step 1: Organize Your Apps for Easy Access A well-organized home screen starts with thoughtful app arrangement. Properly categorizing your apps ensures that your most-used tools are always within reach, while less frequently used apps remain accessible without creating clutter. Follow these steps to streamline your app layout: Place frequently used apps , such as messaging, email, or social media, on your main screen for quick access. , such as messaging, email, or social media, on your main screen for quick access. Group related apps into folders. For instance, create folders labeled 'Work,' 'Entertainment,' or 'Utilities' to keep similar apps together. Move rarely used apps to secondary screens to maintain a tidy and focused main screen. This method not only declutters your home screen but also saves time when searching for specific apps, making your phone more efficient to use. Step 2: Choose a Wallpaper That Sets the Tone The wallpaper you select serves as the foundation of your home screen's overall aesthetic. A well-chosen background can enhance the visual harmony of your interface without distracting from its functionality. Consider these tips when selecting a wallpaper: Opt for minimalistic designs , gradients, or nature-inspired images to maintain clarity and focus. , gradients, or nature-inspired images to maintain clarity and focus. Avoid busy or overly detailed patterns that can make icons and widgets harder to see. Explore built-in wallpaper libraries or third-party apps to find unique and high-quality options. A carefully selected wallpaper creates a cohesive backdrop, making sure your home screen is both visually appealing and easy to navigate. Step 3: Add Widgets for Enhanced Functionality Widgets are a powerful tool for improving your home screen's functionality. They provide quick access to essential information or controls without requiring you to open individual apps. To make the most of widgets, follow these suggestions: Choose widgets that display useful data , such as weather updates, calendar events, or fitness stats. , such as weather updates, calendar events, or fitness stats. Experiment with widget sizes and placements to ensure they integrate seamlessly into your layout. For example, a music widget allows you to control playback directly, while a clock widget can replace the need to open the clock app. Strategically placed widgets can make your home screen more efficient, helping you stay organized and informed at a glance. Step 4: Customize App Icons for a Unified Look Custom app icons can elevate your home screen's design, giving it a polished and cohesive appearance. Many smartphones offer built-in customization options, while third-party apps and launchers provide even more flexibility. Here's how to create a unified look with custom icons: Download icon packs that match your chosen theme, such as minimalist, retro, or vibrant styles. that match your chosen theme, such as minimalist, retro, or vibrant styles. Align your app icons with your wallpaper and widgets to achieve a harmonious design. For instance, a monochrome icon pack can create a sleek, professional look, while colorful icons can add a playful and dynamic touch. Customizing your app icons ensures your home screen feels intentional and visually consistent, enhancing its overall appeal. Step 5: Optimize Your Layout for Simplicity A clean and functional layout is essential for an effective home screen. By prioritizing simplicity, you can create an interface that is both visually pleasing and easy to navigate. Use these tips to optimize your layout: Limit the number of items on each screen to avoid visual clutter and maintain focus. and maintain focus. Use grid settings to evenly space icons and widgets, creating a balanced and organized appearance. Experiment with grid sizes to suit your preferences. For example, a 4×5 grid offers a spacious feel, while a 5×6 grid maximizes screen real estate. A streamlined layout not only enhances usability but also ensures your home screen remains aesthetically pleasing. Your Personalized Home Screen Awaits By following these steps, you can transform your phone's home screen into a space that is both functional and visually stunning. Organizing your apps, selecting the right wallpaper, incorporating widgets, customizing app icons, and optimizing your layout will result in a home screen that enhances your daily experience. Take a few minutes today to create a mobile interface that is uniquely yours—efficient, organized, and reflective of your personal style. Discover other guides from our vast content that could be of interest on Home screen customization. Source & Image Credit: Sam Beckman Filed Under: Android News, Apple iPhone, Guides, Mobile Phone News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
23-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
The Big Leap: Android 16 Material 3 Expressive vs. Android 15's Design
Android 16 brings a range of updates aimed at refining your experience with a focus on improved design, functionality, and customization. While it builds upon the solid foundation of Android 15, this latest version introduces subtle yet impactful changes that enhance usability and aesthetics. In the video below, Techmo delves into the key updates that distinguish Android 16 and explores how they elevate the overall user experience. Watch this video on YouTube. Home Screen Enhancements The home screen in Android 16 has undergone thoughtful redesigns to improve both its functionality and visual appeal. These updates include: Increased space for app icons, allowing for an additional row and a half, which improves organization and accessibility. Enhanced haptic feedback when moving or placing icons, delivering a more tactile and satisfying interaction. These changes are designed to make your home screen more intuitive, organized, and visually engaging, making sure a seamless interaction with your device. Revamped App Drawer and Visual Design The app drawer has been visually refreshed to align with the Material 3 design language, offering a more modern and cohesive interface. Key updates include: Larger text and redesigned icons, improving readability and making navigation more user-friendly. Transparent backgrounds that create a unified and polished look across the interface. These enhancements not only elevate the aesthetic appeal but also improve usability, making it easier to locate and manage your apps efficiently. Quick Settings and Notifications Panel Android 16 introduces refinements to the quick settings and notification panel, focusing on usability and functionality. Updates include: Integrated haptic feedback for interactions, offering a more engaging and responsive experience. A prominently featured notification history option, allowing you to revisit past alerts effortlessly. A redesigned brightness bar for precise adjustments, improving control over screen brightness. Quick settings buttons with added functionality, such as faster access to 'Do Not Disturb' mode and other frequently used features. These updates streamline how you manage notifications and settings, making everyday tasks more efficient and intuitive. Expanded Customization Options Customization takes a significant leap forward in Android 16, offering users more ways to personalize their devices. Key features include: Dynamic wallpaper options that incorporate real-time weather effects like snow, rain, and fog, adding a touch of interactivity to your home screen. Larger icons and wallpapers, improving visibility and accessibility for a broader range of users. A cohesive design that ensures seamless integration of backgrounds, icons, and UI elements for a unified visual experience. These updates cater to users seeking a more personalized and visually harmonious interface, allowing for greater expression and functionality. Redesigned Settings Menu The settings menu in Android 16 has been overhauled to enhance clarity and ease of navigation. Key improvements include: Colorful icons and a more intuitive layout inspired by elements of iOS and One UI 7, making it easier to locate specific settings. Larger elements that improve accessibility, particularly for users with visual impairments or other accessibility needs. This redesign ensures that adjusting settings is straightforward and user-friendly, reducing the time spent navigating menus. Smoother Animations and Enhanced Haptics Android 16 refines animations and haptic feedback to create a more immersive and polished experience. Notable updates include: Smoother transitions when opening and closing apps, contributing to a more fluid and responsive interface. Increased haptic feedback across various interactions, enhancing the tactile experience and making interactions feel more engaging. These subtle improvements elevate the overall user experience, making everyday tasks feel more intuitive and enjoyable. Improved Multitasking and Split-Screen Features Multitasking capabilities in Android 16 have been enhanced to provide greater flexibility and functionality. Key updates include: New options, such as the ability to pause apps in split-screen mode, giving users more control over multitasking workflows. A transparent background in the recent apps view, aligning with the modern design aesthetic and improving visual clarity. These updates are designed to boost productivity while maintaining a sleek and cohesive interface, making sure multitasking feels seamless and efficient. General Observations and Compatibility Android 16 introduces several noteworthy updates that enhance the overall user experience. While minor glitches in animations have been observed, these are likely due to its beta status and are expected to be resolved in future updates. Importantly, compatibility with existing applications remains strong, making sure a smooth transition for users upgrading from Android 15. This focus on maintaining stability while introducing new features highlights Android 16's commitment to delivering a refined and reliable experience. Refining the Android Experience Android 16 builds on the strengths of its predecessor by introducing thoughtful design updates, enhanced haptics, and expanded customization options. From the revamped app drawer and improved multitasking features to dynamic wallpapers and a redesigned settings menu, Android 16 offers a cohesive and modern interface tailored to your needs. These updates not only enhance usability but also provide a more personalized and engaging experience, making Android 16 a compelling choice for users seeking both functionality and style. Here is a selection of other guides from our extensive library of content you may find of interest on Android 16 updates. Source & Image Credit: Techmo Filed Under: Android News, Mobile Phone News, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
