Pixel Buds app visible in Pixel Launcher after update and Google TV moves away from full-width search bar
Top 3 Key Points:
- The Pixel Buds app now appears in Pixel Launcher after the latest update.
- Google TV redesign replaces the full-width search bar with a more compact magnifying glass icon.
- The redesign of Google TV enhances the user experience by offering a more immersive interface.
Google has made a significant update to its Pixel phones by allowing the Pixel Buds app to now appear in the Pixel Launcher, a feature that was previously hidden. With the new version 1.0.673625792 of the Pixel Buds app, which also supports the upcoming Pixel Buds Pro 2, the app can be displayed directly in the launcher when your Pixel Buds are paired or saved to the device.
This change allows users to place the Pixel Buds app on their home screens for quick access to settings, instead of using a widget or shortcut that shows a live image of the headphones. While some found the previous shortcut, which displayed a small icon of the headphones in the corner, out of place on their home screens, this new option simplifies access. Some users might still prefer using the Battery widget or the Bluetooth Quick Settings Tile for even faster access.
It’s important to note that this app icon was always visible on other Android devices, but only Pixel phones had it hidden. The updated version of the Pixel Buds app is now available through the Play Store for all users.
Meanwhile, Google TV’s Android app is undergoing a redesign to streamline its interface, moving away from the large, full-width search bar at the top. Previously, this bar featured “Google TV” branding, a voice search shortcut, and a user account switcher. The redesign replaces the large bar with a smaller magnifying glass icon next to the user’s profile avatar, while the “Google TV” logo shifts to the top-left corner of the screen.
This new layout allows artwork to extend to the top of the screen, creating a more immersive experience for users. When you initiate a search, you’ll now find an “Explore genres” grid, featuring categories like Action, Comedy, and Animated content. This leads to dedicated pages with more viewing options, a feature that wasn’t part of the previous design.
Many of Google’s apps, such as Google Messages and the Play Store, have been adopting similar minimalistic designs by removing large search bars in favor of smaller icons. While the full-width bar makes it easier to find and access search features, the compact magnifying glass icon saves space and looks more modern.
The Google TV redesign is currently rolling out via server-side updates, but it’s not yet widely available. Some devices, including the Pixel Fold, are already showing these changes with version 4.39.2486.x of the app.