Are you tired with the Google search bar which is ever-present on top of your device’s screen while you have hooked on to the latest Ice Cream Sandwich or Jelly Bean? If that’s the scene, then be assured that it is quite easy to get rid of the search bar. There is actually a host of ways to remove it. Let’s check it out.
Below is the list of several ways to remove it.
Step 1 – The Easiest Way (no sweat)
The easiest way, in either version of the Android OS is to open your Settings – Apps – All, and find “Google Search”. From there simply tap “Disable” and “OK”, and you’re done. No more search bar on your screen.
But you should also note that there are a few side-effects.
Note that the space the Search Bar took up will not be available for you to use as well. It will remain as an empty space. Moreover, your Google Search app won’t work while it’s “Disabled”, and on Jelly Bean this includes Google Now. As long as Jelly Bean is concerned, you’ll have a gray bar where Google Search used to be. That, however, goes away after a reboot.
Now if you want the search bar (or Google Now) back, just reverse the above steps. And don’t freak out if you can’t find Google Search in the All Apps list. If you remember, the disabled apps are at the bottom.
Step 2 – The Custom Launcher
Since the search bar stays as an element in the launcher, all you have to do is replace your launcher with one that either doesn’t include the persistent search bar, or allows you to remove it. If you want to keep the cool ICS or JB feel, nonetheless, try something like Holo Launcher. Note that you won’t have Google Search on your screen unless you add it as a widget.
Step 3 – The Custom ROM
If you’re already running a custom ROM, check the settings as you may already have an option to turn the search bar on and off. In reality, there are so many versions of so many custom ROMs, for so many devices that it is nearly impossible to actually name all the ROMs that support this functionality. Check and see if yours does, and if so then your problem has been solved.
