Google tests Android 16 changes to remove AI shortcuts and restore colorful icons

Google is testing significant changes to Android’s Pixel Launcher that will allow users to remove the AI Mode shortcut and bring back colorful weather icons. These adjustments address user interface concerns following the Material 3 redesign and Android 16’s new search experience rollout.

What you should know: The Android Canary build introduces user-facing tweaks that restore previous design elements while offering more customization options.

• Users will be able to disable the AI Mode shortcut in the Pixel Launcher search field through Google app settings under “Customize Pixel Search Box.”
• The AI Mode toggle is currently enabled by default but can be unchecked to return the search field to its previous design with just voice and Google Lens shortcuts.
• This change is appearing with the latest Google app beta version 16.26.

The design reversal: Google is bringing back the colorful weather icons to At a Glance after the Material 3 Expressive redesign introduced white weather icons.

• The original Material 3 update replaced colorful weather icons with white ones in both the top-left corner of the home screen and on the lockscreen.
• The Android Canary build restores the same colorful icon set used in Android 16 and earlier versions.
• This change significantly improves visibility and glanceability compared to the white icons.

Why this matters: These modifications suggest Google is responding to user feedback about recent interface changes that may have reduced functionality or visual clarity.

• The AI Mode shortcut was introduced with Android 16 as an alternative to opening the Google app, currently available in the US and India.
• The upcoming QPR1 update will redesign the search bar entirely, indicating continued interface evolution.
• Both changes prioritize user choice and visual accessibility over newer design aesthetics.

Timeline: These features are expected to be available by the initial Android 16 QPR1 release in September, though they’re currently being tested in the Android Canary build.