Among the many features that enhance user experience on tablets and foldable phones, the taskbar at the bottom of the screen stands out, housing frequently used applications for quick access. However, this functionality is not exclusive to foldable devices; regular non-folding smartphones can also enjoy a similar feature. For instance, when setting up a new Samsung or Motorola device, one of the first tasks is to enable and customize the side panel—often referred to as the Sidebar or Edge Panel. This feature has become a staple for many Android users, despite its absence on Pixel smartphones.
To access this feature on Samsung devices, users can download the Good Lock app from the Play Store or Galaxy Store. After installation, navigating through the plugins to install the Home Up module is the next step. Once the Home Up module is activated, users can toggle on the Edge Panel, which opens up a world of customization options. These include integrating various types of panels into a single interface, allowing for quick access to apps, contacts, and shortcuts, as well as scrolling through recent apps and expanding the view to display multiple columns of applications.
Excitingly, a user on Android 17 has showcased that the forthcoming One UI 9 update will introduce even greater customization options for the Edge Panel. An update to the Home Up module will allow users to personalize backgrounds and colors, modify the corner radius, and adjust the blur effect. However, it is important to note that Samsung has yet to officially release Android 17/One UI 9, so those not on the beta program will need to exercise a bit of patience.
Pixel is missing out
While Samsung leads the charge with its side panel feature, Motorola users can also take advantage of this functionality. To enable it, users should navigate to Settings > Gestures > Sidebar and toggle the feature on. From there, tapping the Settings icon allows for the addition of apps, tools, and contacts, effectively merging three of Samsung’s panels into one cohesive unit.
For OnePlus users, the feature is located in a less intuitive area. It can be found under Settings > Accessibility & convenience > Smart Sidebar, where users can toggle it on and customize its position and functions. By opening the Sidebar and selecting Edit, users can curate the apps they wish to have readily available.
As for Pixel smartphones, the absence of a built-in sidebar feature remains a notable oversight. Despite the availability of third-party applications like Panels that attempt to replicate this functionality, many users prefer the seamless integration of a native feature without any associated costs. The closest alternative offered by Pixel devices is the new App Bubbles, which facilitates multitasking through floating bubbles, yet it falls short of the dedicated sidebar experience. There is hope that future OS updates or Pixel Drops will finally address this gap in functionality.
