Over the past few days, users have noticed that tapping the Pixel Launcher search bar now opens the Google app. This change is intentional, not a bug, according to reports. Previously, the search bar at the bottom of the Pixel phone’s home screen would open a unique search overlay, allowing users to search for apps, local files, and contacts. This overlay featured a translucent design with the prompt “Search web and more” and included a row of app suggestions based on previous searches.
The new experience resembles that of other Android devices, where tapping the Google Search bar widget leads to a full-screen interface powered by the Google app.
While users can still launch apps, the app search and shortcuts for Clock, Contacts, Pixel Tips, Play Store, Settings, and Wallet have been removed. This change is part of the November 2025 Feature Drop, described as “An upgraded home screen search bar.” Google stated that this update allows easier access to AI Mode, enhancing the search experience directly from the home screen.
Users can still access the original Pixel Launcher search by using the bar at the top of the app grid on their Pixel 10 and other models. Enabling the “Swipe up to start search” option in Home settings can restore the previous experience.
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