Android
Android Launcher developers unite to urge Google for improvements and Chrome’s address bar switch set for final return

Top 3 Key Points:
- Android launcher developers collaborate to push Google for better user experience due to ongoing issues.
- A survey was launched to gather data, aimed at fixing bugs and improving third-party launcher compatibility.
- Chrome for Android is likely to reintroduce the bottom address bar switch, ending user frustrations.
Third-party Android launchers like Nova, Lawnchair, and Niagara have long been popular for customizing home screens, but recently, their quality has suffered. Due to Android updates, users are facing issues such as lagging animations, gesture failures, and missing features like screenshots or RAM data. This degradation in performance has frustrated both users and developers.
Have you experienced issues using third-party launchers on Android? We’re gathering insights on how widespread these problems are across different devices. Your input can help us share valuable feedback with the Android team!
Take our quick survey: https://t.co/Y0BJ95JLJv…— Smart Launcher (@SmartLauncher) September 9, 2024
In response, leading launcher developers are teaming up to address the situation. They’ve launched a survey to gather data on the various issues affecting launchers across different Android devices. The goal is to compile this information and present it to Google’s Android team at an event in October. Developers hope this feedback will prompt Google to take action and improve the overall launcher experience.
Smart Launcher shared the survey link on X (formerly Twitter), encouraging users to participate. The more feedback collected, the stronger the case for Google to address these issues. The survey covers basic information like Android version, device, and launcher type, aiming to give a clear picture of the problem.
At the same time, Google Chrome for Android is working on a feature that has been requested for years: moving the address bar to the bottom of the screen. Although this feature existed in the past, Google removed it several times, frustrating many users, especially those with larger phones. Recent code leaks in the Canary version of Chrome suggest that the bottom address bar may soon return, possibly for good.
This feature is already available on iOS, and its reintroduction could satisfy Android users who have been asking for it. While Google hasn’t confirmed an official release date, the change would improve one-handed usability, making the mobile browsing experience more user-friendly.
For now, both launcher developers and Chrome users are eagerly awaiting updates from Google. If the company listens, these changes could enhance both the customization and browsing experience on Android devices.
The new address bar settings page is already available in Chrome Canary for Android, but the toggles don’t work yet:https://t.co/AUgbTgk6sk pic.twitter.com/TJ6sZihgf9
— Leopeva64 (@Leopeva64) September 13, 2024
Android
New Android Updates: Easier call controls and earthquake alerts on your wrist

Google is making Android and Wear OS even better with some helpful new features.
Easier call controls with Android 16
Android 16 is testing a new “call chip” that makes it easier to manage phone calls. When you’re on a call, a small button will appear at the top of your screen. This “call chip” lets you quickly get back to your call if you switch to another app. You can tap it to return to the call screen, mute yourself, or hang up, all without searching for the call app. This update should make handling calls much simpler, especially if you often multitask on your phone.
Earthquake alerts coming to wear os smartwatches
Google is also bringing earthquake alerts to Wear OS smartwatches. If there’s an earthquake nearby, your watch will vibrate and show a warning on the screen. This helps you get alerts even if your phone isn’t in your hand. The feature uses the same technology as Android’s earthquake alert system, which gathers data from phones to detect quakes quickly. Now, with alerts on your wrist, you can get to safety even faster.
What does this mean for users
These updates show that Google wants to make daily life safer and easier. With better call controls and quick earthquake warnings, Android and Wear OS devices are becoming even more helpful for everyone.
Android
Android 16 QPR1 beta 2 brings see-through notifications and a new Pixel Launcher search

Google has released the Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 update, and it comes with some interesting changes for Pixel phones. The update adds transparent notifications, making alerts look lighter and less blocky on your screen. Now, when you get a message or alert, the background of the notification is see-through, so you can still see a bit of your wallpaper or whatever is behind it. This small change makes your phone look cleaner and more modern.
Another big change is in the Pixel Launcher’s search feature. When you swipe up to search for apps or information, you’ll notice a new look. The search bar is now rounded and sits at the top of the screen, making it easier to spot. Suggestions for apps and actions are now shown in a simpler list, and the whole search area feels more organized. This redesign helps you find what you need faster and keeps things looking neat.
Both of these updates show that Google is working to make Android easier and nicer to use. The see-through notifications and improved search are small tweaks, but they make a big difference in how your phone feels day-to-day. If you have a Pixel phone and like trying new features, this beta update is worth checking out.
Android
New updates for Pixel Watch and Android 16 make things easier

Google has released some new updates for both the Pixel Watch and Android 16, making devices easier and more fun to use.
Pixel Watch gets June 2025 update
The Pixel Watch is getting its June 2025 update, which brings bug fixes and better security. This update helps keep your watch running smoothly and safely. If you have a Pixel Watch, you should see the update soon.
Android 16 introduces better sound settings
Android 16 Beta 2 now has a new sound menu. This menu puts all the sound and vibration settings in one place, so you can easily change things like ringtones, alarms, and notification sounds. It’s now much simpler to control how your phone sounds.
First look at Android 16 desktop mode
Android 16 is also working on a desktop mode. This feature lets you use your phone more like a computer when you connect it to a bigger screen. You can move apps around, open more than one window, and work more efficiently.
live effects for wallpapers
Another new feature in Android 16 is the “Live Effects” section in the wallpaper picker. Now, you can add cool effects to your wallpapers, making your home screen look more lively and personal.
New wi-fi icons
Android 16 is also updating the Wi-Fi icons. The new icons are easier to understand, so you can quickly see how strong your connection is.
These updates show that Google is working hard to make devices simpler and more enjoyable for everyone to use.
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