Modern mobile devices offer users incredible flexibility in customizing their appearance. With the release Android 11 Google made a number of significant changes to the system architecture, which directly affected the way we interact with the home screen and application list. Many owners of smartphones that have updated to this version are faced with the need to adapt the interface to their habits, since the standard settings may not seem convenient enough. Changing the menu is not just changing the wallpaper, but a deep restructuring of navigation, which affects the speed and ergonomics of the device.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the available methods for transforming the menu, from basic launcher settings to installing third-party solutions. You'll learn how to hide unnecessary icons, change the application grid, and even completely replace the standard desktop with a more functional analogue. Understanding how it works system launcherwill allow you to turn your gadget into a unique tool that perfectly suits your needs.
Standard desktop settings and application grid
Before resorting to radical measures, it is worth studying the built-in capabilities of the system. IN Android 11 interface settings are scattered across different points, but they are accessed by long pressing on an empty space on the screen. This action brings up a context menu where the main configuration options are hidden. Here you can change the grid size, which directly affects the number of icons that fit on one screen.
Changing icon density is the first step towards personalization. If you need to see more apps at once, choose a grid with more rows and columns. However, it is worth considering that too small icons may make it difficult for your finger to hit, especially on devices with small diagonals. The optimal choice is often a balance between capacity and ease of use.
Also in this menu there is an option to add widgets. Unlike previous versions, widgets have become more interactive and informative. You can place the clock, weather, news, or smart home controls on your desktop. The right layout of widgets and icons allows you to create a truly ergonomic space where all the important information is at your fingertips. Android 11 widgets have become more interactive and informative. You can place the clock, weather, news, or smart home controls on your desktop. The correct layout of widgets and icons allows you to create a truly ergonomic space where all important information is at hand.
Use Google Assistant widgets to quickly access frequently used actions, such as turning on the flashlight or starting a timer, right from the home screen.
Hide apps and create folders for organization space
One of the common problems is that the menu is cluttered with applications that you rarely use. The standard launcher of many manufacturers based on Android 11 there is a function for hiding applications. This allows you to remove icons from the general list without deleting the apps themselves. Hidden applications are usually accessed through a special gesture or section in the launcher settings.
Folders are ideal for grouping frequently used apps. Creating a folder is easy: just drag one icon onto another. The system will automatically create a container that you can rename. It helps to structure the menu by category, for example, “Social networks”, “Games” or “Work”. This organization significantly speeds up the search for the necessary software.
- 📁 Create thematic folders to group similar applications.
- 👁️ Use the hide function for system utilities that you do not use.
- 🎨 Change the color of folders if your launcher supports customization.
⚠️ Attention: When hiding applications, remember that they still take up space in the device’s memory. Hiding only affects the visual display in the menu, but does not remove the app.
Some users prefer a minimalistic style, leaving only widgets on the main screens, and putting all applications in a hidden list or leaving them only in the lower dock. This approach takes some getting used to, but makes the interface visually cleaner. Experiment with the number of pages to find your ideal balance between accessibility and order.
How to return a hidden application?
To return a hidden application, go to the launcher settings, find the “Hidden applications” section and uncheck the box next to the desired app. It will appear in the general list again.
Installing third-party launchers to completely change the interface
If the standard features Android 11 do not suit you, the best solution would be to install a third-party launcher. These are applications that completely replace the standard desktop, offering new gestures, animations and operating logic. Popular options such as Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher or Smart Launchergive control over every pixel of the screen.
The installation process is simple: download the selected launcher from Google Play, run it and follow the instructions in the setup wizard. The system will prompt you to select a default application for the home screen. After confirmation, your interface will change. You can change the shape of icons, fonts, transitions and even the behavior of the Home button.
| Name of the launcher | Key feature | Difficulty of customization |
|---|---|---|
| Nova Launcher | Maximum flexibility and speed | High |
| Microsoft Launcher | Integration with the Windows ecosystem | Medium |
| Smart Launcher 6 | Automatic application sorting | Low |
| Niagara Launcher | Minimalism and one-handed control | Low |
Using third-party solutions allows you to bypass the restrictions imposed by smartphone manufacturers. You can get features that are only found in flagship models in a budget device. However, it is worth remembering that some launchers may consume more battery resources than the standard interface.
A third-party launcher is the most powerful customization tool that allows you to change the logic of the menu beyond recognition.
Customizing the notification panel and quick settings
Menu in Android 11 —this is not only the desktop, but also the notification panel, which has undergone significant changes. Now the media player control is placed in a separate block, and quick settings have become more compact. You can edit the order of tiles by dragging them in edit mode.
To access editing, pull down the notification shade twice, then tap the pencil icon. Here you can add the necessary switches, such as “Reading mode” or “Access point”, and remove unused ones. This allows you to make the quick settings panel as useful as possible for your use cases.
An important feature Android 11 is the ability to control your smart home directly from the power menu. If you have compatible devices, you can add their widgets to this section. This eliminates the need to open separate applications to turn on the lights or check the cameras.
⚠️ Attention: The notification panel interface may differ depending on the manufacturer's shell (MIUI, OneUI, ColorOS). Some items may be blocked for editing.
It is also worth paying attention to the priority notification settings. You can choose which apps can interrupt you while in Do Not Disturb mode. This is part of the settings menu that helps control information noise and keep focus on important tasks.
☑️ Optimize the notification panel
Changing navigation gestures and buttons
Navigation is an integral part of the menu and interaction with the system. In Android 11 Google is relying on gesture control, abandoning traditional buttons. Switching between modes is carried out in the section Settings → System → Gestures. Here you can choose between gesture navigation and the classic three buttons.
Gesture controls free up screen space, making it more immersive. A swipe from the bottom returns you to the main screen, a swipe from the sides performs the “Back” action. However, some users need time to get used to the new logic, especially if they are coming from iOS or older versions of Android.
For those who prefer buttons, customizing their order is available. You can swap the back and menu buttons if it's more comfortable for your hand. Also, in some shells, it is possible to hide the navigation bar completely, using a swipe from the edge of the screen to call it up.
- 🖐️ Gestures save space on the display and look modern.
- 🔘 Classic buttons are more familiar to long-term Android users.
- ⚙️ Order buttons can be changed to suit left-handed or right-handed people.
Don't forget about the sensitivity of gestures. If swipes work randomly or, conversely, are not recognized, check the sensitivity settings in the system menu. This is especially true when using protective glass, which can affect the operation of the sensor at the edges of the screen.
Problem with gestures after the update?
If gestures do not work correctly after updating to Android 11, try resetting the launcher settings or rebooting the device in safe mode to check for conflicts.
Fine-tuning via ADB and options for advanced users
For users who want to go beyond the standard settings, there is a tool ADB (Android Debug Bridge). With it, you can disable system applications, change the scale of the interface, and remove elements that are not hidden in the usual way. This requires connecting your smartphone to your computer and having basic knowledge of the command line.
One of the popular commands is changing the screen density (DPI). This allows you to make the interface more compact or, conversely, larger, regardless of system limitations. The command is entered in the terminal after connecting the device.
adb shell wm density 480Also through ADB, you can disable unnecessary Google or manufacturer services that take up space in the menu and consume resources. However, you should proceed with extreme caution: disabling critical system components may lead to unstable operation of the device or cyclic reboot.
⚠️ Attention: Using ADB requires enabling USB debugging. Incorrect commands may result in data loss or system malfunction. Always create a backup before making changes.
If you're not willing to take the risk, there are assistant apps that work without root, but use ADB's capabilities in the background. They provide a convenient interface for disabling applications and fine-tuning settings, making the process safer for the average user.
ADB opens access to hidden system settings, but requires caution and understanding of the risks when modifying system files.
Frequently asked questions about customizing the menu on Android 11
Is it possible to return the old application menu as in Android 10?
It is impossible to return exactly the old menu without replacing the launcher, since the architecture has changed. However, installing a launcher like Nova Launcher will allow you to recreate a similar structure and operating logic to which you are accustomed.
Why did widgets disappear from the main screen after the update?
When updating to Android 11 some widgets may be reset due to changes in the system API. Try adding them again by long pressing on the screen. If the problem persists, clear the launcher cache in the application settings.
How to change application icons without installing themes?
This is often not available in standard settings. You'll need a third-party launcher that supports icon packs, or an icon changer app that works by creating desktop shortcuts.
Is it safe to hide system apps?
It's safe to hide system apps through the launcher settings - they just don't show up in the list. However, deleting or disabling them via ADB without understanding their purpose is not recommended, as this may disrupt the operation of the phone.
Why does the menu slow down after installing a new launcher?
Third-party launchers may consume more RAM. Try disabling complex animations in the launcher settings or freeing up space on your device. Also make sure that you have the latest version of the application installed.