How to remove the Google Search bar from your Android screen

Aside from Google’s pre-installed apps, all Android phones come featuring the Google Search bar in their home screen. It’s no secret that Google’s goal for this is to ensure that users continually use their services as much as possible. If you are one of those people that find it particularly annoying or useless, then here are few tips to help you remove it.

How to remove the Google Search bar

The removal of Google Search bar is a simple task but differs from device to device. For instance, getting rid of it on a Samsung or LG Android smartphone is similar to how you’d remove it from any other home screen. However, this does not apply to Sony Xperia handsets.Here are some instructions on how you can do it, some of these steps may also be attempted on other device variants.

For Samsung smartphones

• Press and hold the Google Search bar on your home screen widget.
• Drag the Google Search bar to the trash/ remove icon that appears at the top of the screen.
• To retrieve the Google Search bar:
• Press and hold anywhere on the home screen with an empty space.
• A menu should appear, select the Widgets option.
• Find the Google App folder and then select it.
• Within the Google App folder, look for the search bar then drag and drop it to a space of your choice on any of your home screens.

For Sony smartphones

• Press and hold the Google Search bar.
• A menu should appear, with the Google Search bar being at the top of the screen and a Hide option seen on its right side; tap the option.
• Now hit the return key or home button.
• The Google Search bar will no longer be seen on your screen.

To return the Google Search bar, just reverse the steps mentioned above and you are set.

Using a custom launcher

Another great alternative, especially if the above steps don’t work on your device, is to employ the features of a custom launcher to remove the Google Search bar. Some of the best options include Apex Launcher and Nova Launcher. Besides allowing you to get rid of the search bar, custom launchers also come with customization features that enable you to add a personalized feel and look to your entire home screen.Here is a list of other custom launchers for Android that you can try out and see if they meet your needs.

By rooting your Android device

Once you root your Android phone, you will most certainly be able to remove the Google Search bar. A rooted Android handset, gives you the freedom to customize your phone your liking, with a variety of custom ROMs at your disposable to let you uninstall the Google Search app.What do you think about the Google Search bar, useful or a nuisance? Let us know in the comments.