A recent update has transformed the functionality of the Pixel Launcher search bar, shifting it to a fullscreen view powered by the Google app. This change, confirmed by Google, is part of the November 2025 Feature Drop, designed as an “upgraded home screen search bar.” Previously, tapping the search bar opened a translucent Pixel Launcher interface that allowed for direct app search and shortcuts to essential features like Clock and Settings.
Users will now encounter a layout reminiscent of the experience on other Android devices, akin to launching the Google app directly. While this update introduces enhanced access to the AI Mode search experience, it results in the loss of direct app access and shortcuts, which some may find inconvenient.
Despite the upgrade, users can still revert to the old functionality by enabling the “Swipe up to start search” option, although this may disrupt established habits. The update emphasizes quicker access to previous AI Mode queries, but some users consider this shift a regression in visual and functional aspects of the Pixel experience.