Google Search is Working on a Redesigned Widget with Customizable Shortcuts

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To make it more engaging, Google is revamping its Android Search widget with a fresh design and new customizable shortcuts, such as Sports, Dictionary, and Homework.

Key takeaways

• The Google Search widget has a new design with separate shortcut spaces.
• Customizable themes and shortcut sliders enhance user experience.
• New shortcuts include Sports, Dictionary, and Homework.
• A Share option for search results is being added.

Google Search widget’s fresh look

Google is stepping up its game with a redesigned Search widget on Android. The new layout separates the search bar and the shortcuts, making the shortcuts more prominent in a circular section. 

This visual change improves functionality and aligns with user-defined themes, offering a more personalized experience. The Customize page, accessible by long-pressing the widget, allows users to tweak the widget’s appearance with sliders for color adjustments. 

These updates signal a shift from the current, barebones design, providing a more modern and user-friendly interface.

Customizable shortcuts and new additions

This redesign significantly upgrades shortcuts. Google is adding new options like Sports, Dictionary, and Homework, which join shortcuts such as Translate (text and camera), Song Search, Weather, and Finance. 

Users can access these shortcuts via the “Customize” page, making adding functionality to their widgets easier.

By catering to diverse needs, from finding sports updates to solving homework questions, Google is making the widget more practical for a wider audience. 

This customization gives users more control, setting it apart from the static Pixel Launcher search bar.

Rivaling the Pixel Launcher

The redesign positions the widget as a more dynamic alternative to the Pixel Launcher’s Search bar, fixed to the bottom of the home screen. 

Unlike Pixel’s minimalist approach, the new widget allows users to personalize their experience, making it functional and visually appealing. Here are some more examples of minimalist website designs for your inspiration.

It’s a deliberate move to win over skeptics who found the older design uninspired. The added features make it stand out as a centerpiece for home screen customization.

Share search results easily

Google is also introducing a Share button to search results. Positioned to the left of the user avatar, this feature allows users to share URLs of the results page directly. 

While its practicality remains questionable, it shows Google’s push toward enhancing collaboration and shareability in search. 

This addition, though small, adds another layer of convenience for users who frequently share information online, highlighting Google’s effort to cater to every possible user need.

Why does this matter?

These changes reflect Google’s intent to stay ahead of competitors by making its Search widget indispensable for Android users. 

With critics often calling out the lack of innovation in its tools, combining a sleek redesign, expanded shortcuts, and enhanced functionality aims to reinvigorate interest and keep Google Search firmly embedded in the Android experience.

Source: Android Police

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