Pixel Launcher May Let You Remove Google’s AI Mode Shortcut Soon

Google has been experimenting a lot with AI Mode, following the US rollout back in May. If you have a Google Pixel phone, you might have noticed a new AI Mode shortcut in the Pixel Launcher’s search widget. While the company wanted users to launch AI Mode right from the home screen, this idea wasn’t received well by many users. Now, according to a report, Google is working on giving users the ability to hide/remove the AI Mode shortcut from the Pixel Launcher’s search widget. 

Although the shortcut offers a quick and easy way to access AI Mode on Google Pixel phones, many complained of it being intrusive. Some even reported that they tapped on the shortcut by mistake while performing a regular search. Now, that’s where the problem lies. 

Google, fortunately, understands this issue and is working on a toggle that can help users remove the AI Mode shortcut. Folks over at 9to5Google spotted a few code strings related to the upcoming change in the Google app version 16.26.64.sa.arm64. 

The same discovery was made by Android Authority. The outlet even managed to activate the feature. As seen in the screenshots at the end, Google will add a new “Customize Pixel Search Box” option to remove the AI Mode shortcut. When available, you will find it in the Google app settings. 

New toggle incoming

Once you click on the aforementioned option, a new page will open. There, you’ll find a new option labeled “AI Mode,” with a toggle switch accompanying it. By default, the toggle switch will remain enabled. When you turn it off, the Pixel Launcher’s search widget reverts to its old design, without the AI Mode shortcut.

It’s worth noting that the feature already works as expected and is ready for rollout. Although there are no official words regarding this feature, the company may quietly roll it out to the masses soon.