Android 8.1 Oreo, while not the latest iteration of Android, still powers many devices and offers a robust home screen experience. This guide dives deep into the customization options and key features of the Android 8.1 home screen, answering many common questions users have.
What are the Key Features of the Android 8.1 Home Screen?
The Android 8.1 home screen provides a foundation for personalized organization and access to your apps and information. Key features include:
- Widgets: Place widgets directly on your home screen for quick access to information like weather, calendar events, news headlines, and more. Size and placement are fully customizable.
- App Shortcuts: Many apps offer shortcuts that provide quick access to specific features without opening the full application. These can be added directly to your home screen for streamlined usability.
- Folders: Group similar apps together in folders for better organization. You can even customize folder names and icons.
- Wallpaper: Personalize your home screen with a wide range of wallpapers, from static images to live wallpapers that add dynamic movement.
- Gestures: Android 8.1 supports various gestures for navigation, including swiping up to access the app drawer. (Note: Specific gesture support depends on your device manufacturer and launcher.)
- Google Search Bar: The prominent Google Search bar provides quick access to Google Search and Google Assistant.
How Do I Customize My Android 8.1 Home Screen?
Customizing your Android 8.1 home screen is straightforward:
- Long press: A long press on an empty space on your home screen typically brings up options for adding widgets, wallpapers, and more.
- Adding widgets: Select "Widgets" from the menu, then browse and select the widgets you want to add. Resize them as needed.
- Adding apps: Long press on an app icon from your app drawer and drag it to the home screen.
- Creating folders: Drag one app icon onto another to create a folder. You can then rename the folder and add more apps.
- Changing wallpaper: Select "Wallpapers" from the menu and choose from a variety of pre-loaded options or browse your own image gallery.
Can I Change the Default Launcher on Android 8.1?
Yes, you can usually change the default launcher on Android 8.1. This allows you to switch to a different home screen experience with unique features and customization options. The process varies slightly depending on your device, but generally involves:
- Installing a new launcher: Download a third-party launcher from the Google Play Store (e.g., Nova Launcher, Action Launcher).
- Setting the new launcher as default: After installation, you might be prompted to set the new launcher as default. Otherwise, go to your device's settings, look for "Apps" or "Applications," find the new launcher, and select it as the default.
What are Some Popular Third-Party Launchers for Android 8.1?
Several popular third-party launchers offer extensive customization options beyond the default Android 8.1 experience. These include:
- Nova Launcher: Known for its extensive customization options, including gestures, icon packs, and app drawer styles.
- Action Launcher: Features unique features like "Covers" for quick access to specific app functions.
- Microsoft Launcher: Integrates well with Microsoft services and offers a clean, customizable interface.
How Do I Remove Apps from My Android 8.1 Home Screen?
Removing apps from your Android 8.1 home screen is simple:
- Long press: Long press on the app icon you want to remove.
- Drag to "Remove": Drag the app icon to the "Remove" or trash can icon at the top of the screen.
Are there any hidden features on the Android 8.1 Home Screen?
While not explicitly "hidden," some features might be less obvious. Experiment with long-pressing on different elements, like widgets or app icons. You may discover additional customization options or contextual menus that weren't immediately apparent. Also, check your device's settings for any additional launcher-specific customization options.
This comprehensive guide should equip you with the knowledge to fully utilize and customize your Android 8.1 home screen. Remember that specific features and options may vary slightly depending on your device manufacturer and any customizations they've implemented.