3 min read
Google announced the Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL a few days back. Both of the phones are, without any doubt, among the best smartphones available right now. The Pixel 2 comes with a new Pixel launcher and Google has made several additions and alterations in it.
Other than the Pixel Launcher, Google Now is the most popular launcher for older Android devices but Google has not updated it since November 2015.
Google has introduced some tweaks in the new launcher on Pixel 2. Here is a look at them:
1. Search bar moves to bottom
The search bar was always on top of the home screen until now. Google has changed the trend with the new Pixel 2. The search bar has now been moved to the bottom, even below the favorites bar. It will be easier for users to access the search bar at the bottom. It shows that Google wants its users to use search bar more.
Moreover, the search bar now has rounded edges which makes it look more attractive. It now fits in with the other adaptive, round icons. The search bar stays there even when scrolling through the screens which means that you can access it anytime.
2. There’s a transparent notification widget on the top
As Google has moved the search bar to the bottom, it introduced a new, transparent widget which will show you important information at a glance. The widget shows you different information including the upcoming events, weather, calendar, Google Assistant notifications and it will even show you the name of the song you are listening on your home speakers. So unlike most of the widgets with a white background which take a lot of space on your home screen, this widget looks beautiful and is theme friendly.
3. Living Universe Live Wallpapers
With the launch of Google Pixel last year, Google introduced a Google Wallpapers app which automatically sets a new wallpaper daily on your phone. With the launch of Pixel 2 this year, Google introduced Living Universe live wallpapers which look stunning. The live wallpapers respond when you interact with the home screen. Like the water will make waves if you swipe your finger on it.
Living Universe live wallpapers are exclusive to Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL for now. But last year’s Google wallpapers was made available for everyone after a while. So we can expect that Living Universe wallpapers might be coming for other Android devices as well.
What is your favourite feature on the new Pixel Launcher?
Via — Android Central
Featured Image — Endgadget
