Overview
- Strings found in Android 17 QPR1 Beta 2 mention “Show search bar” and “Search bar settings,” pointing to a new Pixel Launcher toggle.
- A leaked screen recording shared by Mystic Leaks and reported by 9to5Google shows the setting in action and moves docked apps lower when the bar is hidden.
- Google has not confirmed the feature, and items seen in beta builds or leaks can change or be dropped before any stable release.
- Coverage cites possible timelines that range from a Google I/O mention to a later Pixel Feature Drop, so the rollout window remains uncertain.
- The change would follow Android 16’s option to remove the At a Glance widget and could free space on the home screen for apps, folders, or widgets.