As a dedicated Pixel user, my allegiance lies firmly with stock Android, and I consistently embrace the latest Android beta updates. However, I occasionally find myself envious of the additional features that Samsung’s Galaxy phones offer, particularly the Edge Panel. This innovative tool allows users to swipe in from the edge of their devices, unveiling a hidden drawer filled with apps, system actions, and shortcuts. Given the simplicity of the Pixel Launcher, I have longed for a similar functionality.
My search led me to discover the Panels app developed by Fossor Coding, which stands out as a remarkable alternative to Samsung’s Edge Panels. In fact, Panels offers features that may even surpass those of its Samsung counterpart. Users can enjoy the flexibility of custom icon packs, a quick search shortcut, and the ability to open floating widgets. The customization options are extensive; for instance, you can reposition the trigger point to the bottom edge of the screen, which is particularly advantageous for users with larger devices. Additionally, Panels allows for multiple columns, accommodating layouts of up to seven columns. While the app does offer a paid version, the essential functionalities are available for free.
How to customize the Panels app for Android
To begin, install the Panels app and grant it permission to display over other applications. This step ensures that the Panels launcher operates seamlessly while you navigate through different apps.
Next, tap on the View button to start customizing your panel. The free version permits a setup of three columns and nine rows, which is more than sufficient for most users. For those seeking additional capabilities, upgrading to the full version is a cost-effective option at just .50. Within the Trigger section, you can adjust the trigger area; for larger phones, I recommend lowering this area towards the bottom of the screen for easier access.
Now, let’s delve into customizing the Panels launcher itself. Swipe in from your designated trigger area and hold for a moment to reveal the sidebar panel. You will notice some pre-installed apps already displayed. To add more, simply tap and hold on an empty space within the panel.
You can choose to incorporate various items into your sidebar:
- Applications: Select any installed app, allowing you to add your most frequently used applications.
- Shortcuts: Create actions that can be launched from within supported apps, such as adding a new task in TickTick or messaging someone on WhatsApp.
- App pair: Set up shortcuts to launch two apps side-by-side, particularly useful with Android 16’s recent 90:10 split-screen update.
- Accessibility: Add shortcuts for system-level options like Home, Back, Notifications, and Screenshot.
- System preferences: Gain quick access to frequently used settings such as media volume, cellular data, and Wi-Fi.
- Website: Add any website as a quick shortcut.
- Floating widget: This hidden gem allows you to add widgets that open in a floating window above other applications, providing updates on news, weather, or sports.
- Folder: Organize numerous quick app options into folders for a cleaner interface.
- Contact: Add any contact as an icon for quick calling, messaging, or emailing.
- Quick Search: This feature brings up a fast search for all installed apps.
As you explore these options, consider what you would like to add to your sidebar launcher. Personally, I prefer to keep it simple, focusing primarily on my most frequently used apps, shortcuts for common actions, and quick access to essential system functionalities.
Here’s a pro tip: while you can open apps in Panels by swiping, lifting your thumb, and selecting, there’s a more efficient method. After swiping in from the edge and the Panels sidebar opens, keep your thumb on the screen. Move your thumb to highlight any app or shortcut (the selected icon will enlarge), and simply release to launch your choice.
In summary, Panels emerges as a robust app that enhances the Android experience. Once you have tailored your setup, launching apps, shortcuts, or widgets becomes a seamless process, requiring just a simple swipe, regardless of the app you are currently using.
