Dedicated Search button to be removed from Android as per Google, what we have to know about it?

Google appears to be gearing up for significant changes to its app that could see the removal of the bottom search bar, a feature that has become a staple on Android devices. This potential shift comes as the tech giant, under the leadership of Sundar Pichai, continues to enhance its search capabilities with the integration of Gemini, its AI-powered search tool.

The first indications of this update were spotted by the tipster Assembly Debug, who noted the changes in the Google beta app for Android version 15.32.37.28.arm64, as reported by Android Headline. Interestingly, while Google seems to be experimenting with several new layouts, none of these configurations include the familiar search bar at the bottom of the interface.

Although Google has yet to officially confirm these modifications, let alone provide an explanation for the potential removal of the bottom search bar, speculation abounds. According to the tipster, these user interface (UI) changes might be driven by extensive data analysis, likely reflecting patterns of how users actually engage with the app in real-world scenarios.

Importantly, this development doesn’t necessarily signal the complete disappearance of the search bar within the Google app. The modifications are expected to impact only specific areas, such as the Discover section or when users are browsing through their collections. The widely-used search widget, which is a crucial feature for many Android users, is likely to remain unaffected and continue to function as usual.

These proposed changes come on the heels of other significant design updates Google has recently made. Notably, the company has already overhauled the Google Play Store’s design, removing the search bar from its traditional position at the top of the screen and introducing a new search tab at the bottom.

In a related development, a report from 9to5Google disclosed that Google is rolling out another update that will restrict users’ ability to customize the search bar widget on Android. This update, which has started appearing on Pixel and Samsung devices, is expected to be gradually introduced across the stable version of the app for all users.

As Google continues to refine and innovate its app interface, these changes reflect the company’s ongoing commitment to optimizing user experience through data-driven insights and the integration of cutting-edge AI technologies.