The modern interface Android undergoes significant changes with each new version of the operating system, and one of the most noticeable innovations in recent years has been the transition from classic buttons to gesture control. Many users, accustomed to the time-tested trio of buttons at the bottom of the screen, are faced with the need to adapt to swipes, which can cause discomfort and reduce productivity when working with a smartphone. Fortunately, the system provides ample opportunities for personalization, allowing you to return the familiar look or customize the navigation to suit your individual preferences.
In this article we will analyze in detail the process of changing navigation elements on devices from various manufacturers, including Samsung, Xiaomi, Huawei and stock Android from Google. You'll learn not only how to switch between gestures and buttons, but also how to change their arrangement if the standard order doesn't suit you. We will look at hidden settings, the capabilities of third-party applications and answer frequently asked questions related to navigation.
Understanding the principles of operation Navigation bar is critical for comfortable use of a smartphone, since it is through it that 90% of all actions in the interface are carried out. Incorrectly configured or unusual navigation can lead to accidental application closures and management errors. Let's look at how to make your device experience as seamless as possible.
Differences between gestures and navigation buttons
The traditional navigation system, known as the "three buttons", is based on visual elements located at the bottom of the display. Typically these include the Back, Home, and Application Drawer (or Recents) buttons. Physical location these elements allow the user to clearly see where to press, reducing cognitive load. On devices with Android 9 and below, this method was the main and only one.
With the release of Android 10 and subsequent versions, Google has relied on full-screen gesture control. In this system, the buttons disappear, freeing up useful screen area, and navigation is carried out by swiping from the edges of the display. A swipe from bottom to top returns to the main screen, a swipe from bottom to top with a pause opens the multitasking menu, and a swipe from the side performs the “Back” function. It is important to note that on some smartphone models (for example, Xiaomi or Samsung), the logic of gestures may differ from Google's stock implementation.
The choice between these two methods often depends on the screen diagonal and personal habits. On larger screens (6.5 inches and above), gestures may be more convenient, since the bottom buttons can be difficult to reach with your thumb. However, for users who frequently use one hand, the classic buttons may remain a more predictable tool.
Setting up navigation on Samsung smartphones
The company Samsung in its shell One UI provides very flexible interface management tools. To change the navigation type, the user needs to go to the settings menu. The path usually looks like this: Settings → Display → Navigation bar. There are three main options available here: gestures, buttons and empty space (if you just want to hide the panel).
One of the unique features Samsung is the ability to fine-tune the sensitivity of gestures. If swipes are not performed the first time or, on the contrary, happen too often by accident, you can change this parameter in the same menu. There is also an “Advanced Settings” feature where you can turn gesture prompts on or off, which is useful for learning.
⚠️ Attention: On some models Samsung with physical buttons or specific screens (for example, the Fold series), the menu layout may differ. If you do not find the “Screen” item, use the search in the settings by entering the query “Navigation.”
For those who prefer the classic look, but want to optimize the space, Samsung offers the “Smooth Finish” mode. It allows you to hide the navigation bar in applications where it is not needed, automatically showing it only when you swipe. This is a hybrid approach that combines the advantages of both methods.
Use the search in Samsung settings (magnifying glass icon at the top) by entering the word "Navigation" to instantly get to the desired section without wandering through the menu.
Changing buttons on Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO
Devices Xiaomiworking on the shell MIUI or new HyperOShave their own specifics. Here the settings are located along the path Settings → Screen → System navigation. Users are asked to choose between Full Screen (gestures) and Buttons. It is noteworthy that Xiaomi allows you to change the order of the "Back" and "Menu" buttons, which is extremely convenient for left-handers.
In the button settings section, you can also activate additional functions, such as hiding the panel when watching a video or launching applications double tap. However, you should be careful with the latest updates MIUIas they sometimes reset user navigation settings to default values after a major system update.
For advanced users, a “Full Screen” mode with additional edge sensitivity settings is available. This helps to avoid conflicts when a swipe for navigation is blocked by a swipe inside an application (for example, in a gallery or browser). System navigation v Xiaomi is considered one of the most responsive among Chinese manufacturers.
☑️ Checking settings Xiaomi
Managing navigation on Huawei and Honor
Smartphones Huawei and Honor with shell EMUI or Magic UI also offer a choice between buttons and gestures. The path to the settings is standard: Settings → System → Navigation and dock button. Here you can not only choose a method, but also configure a “smart panel” - a floating button that duplicates the main functions.
An interesting feature is the ability to configure the press duration for some actions, as well as the vibration response (tactile connection) when you press virtual buttons. This creates a feeling of physical contact, which many users like. Vibration feedback can be configured separately for the keyboard and system navigation.
It is worth mentioning that on older models Huawei with physical buttons, software changes to their functions are limited. However, on all modern models with borderless screens, software switching works normally. If the menu looks different, check for system updates, as interfaces EMUI change frequently.
| Brand | Menu path | Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Samsung | Settings → Screen → Navigation panel | Adjusting gesture sensitivity |
| Xiaomi | Settings → Screen → System navigation | Changing the order of buttons |
| Huawei | Settings → System → Navigation | Setting button vibration |
| Google Pixel | Settings → System → Gestures | Pure Android without unnecessary options |
Third-party applications for customization
If standard system capabilities is not enough, applications from Google Playcome to the rescue. One of the most popular solutions is Navigation Bar - Custom. It allows you not only to change buttons, but also to completely redraw their design, add new functions (screenshot, flashlight, launch applications) and even create floating panels.
Another powerful tool is Button Mapper. This application specializes in remapping button actions. For example, you can have a long press on the Home button open a specific app, and a double press take a screenshot. These apps often require special permissions to work through ADB or the accessibility menu.
⚠️ Attention: Third-party navigation apps can consume additional battery power and sometimes conflict with system gestures. Before installing, make sure that the application is compatible with your version Android.
Using third-party launchers can also change the appearance of navigation, although they rarely affect the system bar directly. Launchers like Nova Launcher allow you to customize gestures on the desktop, which partially compensates for the lack of system buttons. However, specialized utilities are better suited for deep replacement of the bottom row of buttons.
Security of third-party applications
Using applications that require access rights to the navigation system is usually safe if you download them from the official Google Play store. However, avoid apps with questionable reviews as they may collect data about which apps you open. Always check permissions before installation.
Common problems and solutions
Users often encounter a situation where navigation buttons disappear or become unresponsive. This may be caused by a system process failure SystemUI. In most cases, simply rebooting the device helps. If the problem persists, you can try clearing the Settings app cache or resetting the interface settings.
Another common problem is the navigation bar crashing in full-screen games or videos. This can be treated by disabling the “Auto-hide” function in the screen settings. It's also worth checking to see if you've turned on Do Not Disturb or Game mode, which could block system controls to prevent accidental clicks.
If the buttons have become too small or, conversely, are blocking content in applications, check the interface scaling settings. In the section Settings → Display → Font and display size you can change the pixel density (DPI), which will also affect the size of the navigation bar.
Restarting in safe mode will help determine whether the problem with navigation is a system one or caused by an installed application.
Using ADB for advanced settings
For those who are not afraid of the command line, the tool ADB (Android Debug Bridge) gives access to hidden navigation flags. By connecting your smartphone to your computer, you can change the behavior of the buttons at the system level, which is not available through the regular menu. For example, you can completely disable the panel or change its transparency.
To execute commands, you must enable USB debugging mode in the “For Developers” menu. The command to reset navigation settings looks like adb shell settings put secure sysui_nav_bar null, and to return to the standard, delete this parameter. This is a powerful tool that requires caution.
adb shell settings put secure sysui_nav_bar "back,home,recent"Using ADB allows you to introduce buttons where the manufacturer has removed them, or reorder them in a non-standard way. However, it is worth remembering that incorrect use of commands can lead to unstable operation of the interface, so all actions should be performed only after studying the documentation.
⚠️ Attention: Interfaces and menu item names may change with operating system updates. If you do not find an exact match with the instructions, look for similar items in the “System” or “Screen” sections. The relevance of the paths may depend on the firmware version.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Is it possible to completely remove the navigation buttons on Android?
Yes, this can be done in two ways. The first is to enable full-screen gesture controls in the standard settings. The second is to use the “Blank Panel” mode (if available on your model) or ADB commands to completely hide the system bar, which is often used in kiosk modes.
Why are the navigation buttons black or white?
The color of the buttons depends on the theme of the system and the enabled mode (light or dark). If you are using dynamic themes (Material You on Android 12+), the colors may adjust to the wallpaper. You can change this in the theme or design settings.
How to get the Home button back if it's gone?
Most likely, you have gesture controls enabled. Go to the navigation settings and switch to the “Buttons” mode. If you use gestures, the Home function is performed by swiping from the bottom up in the center of the screen.
Does changing the navigation affect the battery charge?
Using static buttons consumes a minimal amount of power, since they are just static pixels. Gestures require the touchscreen to constantly work in the background to track swipes, which theoretically can consume a little more battery, but in practice the difference is unnoticeable.
Is it possible to change the size of the navigation buttons?
Not all manufacturers do this using standard means (for example, Samsung allows you to change only the height of the panel, but not the size of the icons). Changing the size of icons often requires the use of third-party themes or tools like ADB to change the density of the interface.