Google has now rolled out the redesigned Pixel Launcher search bar (in the US) and new Gemini launch animation (for everyone) to Android 16 QPR1 Beta 2 users.
The bar at the bottom of the Pixel Launcher now looks like the Search widget offered by the Google app, as well as Circle to Search.
The old field — with the gradient ‘G’ logo, voice search microphone, and Google Lens shortcut — has been shrunken down and moved to the left. This makes room for a circular AI Mode button where that Google Search feature is offered. Everything is then housed in a pill-shaped container.
If you enabled Themed icons, the four Google colors make way for Dynamic Color. Otherwise, the shortcut cannot be changed or removed as of this beta, while there’s no color or transparency customization.
Those outside the US without Search AI Mode are still seeing the old, fuller design. Google will presumably update it to place the Search bar in a broader container.
Meanwhile, Google has broadly rolled out a new animation when you long-press on the power button to launch the Gemini overlay. Your screen will shrink with black borders coming in from all sides. Gemini then slides up as everything returns to full size. This also brings back the vibration feedback when you long-press.
The new Pixel Launcher search bar and Gemini launch animation are rolling out as server-side updates.
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