Adding your favorite apps to your Android home screen makes them easily accessible. This simple process varies slightly depending on your Android version and device manufacturer, but the core steps remain consistent. This guide will walk you through several methods, answering common questions along the way.
Finding Your Apps
Before you can move an app to your home screen, you need to locate it. This is usually done through the app drawer. To access the app drawer:
- Usually a dedicated icon: Look for an icon, often a grid of dots or squares, on your home screen. Tapping this will open your app drawer, displaying all your installed applications.
- Swipe up: On some Android devices, swiping up from the bottom of the screen will reveal the app drawer.
Method 1: Long Press and Drag
This is the most common method across most Android devices.
- Locate the app: Find the app you want to add to your home screen within your app drawer.
- Long press: Touch and hold the app icon for a second or two. You should see it slightly lift or wiggle.
- Drag and drop: Once the app is highlighted, drag it to your home screen.
- Release: Lift your finger to place the app icon where you want it on your home screen.
Method 2: Using the App Drawer Menu (Some Devices)
Some Android manufacturers include a menu within the app drawer.
- Open the app drawer.
- Look for a menu: Some app drawers have three vertical dots (or a similar icon) in the upper right corner. Tap this to reveal a menu.
- Select "Add to Home Screen": Look for an option to add the app to your home screen. The exact wording might vary.
- Choose the app: Select the app you wish to add.
Method 3: Adding from the Recent Apps Menu (Limited Functionality)
While not directly moving from the home screen, you can sometimes add an app directly from the recent apps menu.
- Open the recent apps menu: Usually accessed by tapping the recent apps button (a square icon with a line underneath) or swiping up from the bottom of the screen.
- Locate the app: Find the app you want to add.
- Long press: Depending on your device and Android version, a long press on the app's preview might offer an option to "Add to home screen." This feature isn't universally available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do I remove an app from the home screen?
To remove an app from your home screen without uninstalling it, simply long-press the app icon until it wiggles. Then, drag it to the "Remove" icon (usually a trash can or X) at the top of the screen.
What if my home screen is full?
If your home screen is full, you'll need to either remove some apps or add more home screen pages. Most Android devices allow you to swipe left or right to reveal additional home screen pages.
Can I create folders on my home screen?
Yes! After long-pressing an app icon and making it wiggle, you can drag one app on top of another to create a folder. You can then rename the folder.
My method isn't working; what should I do?
The specific steps might vary slightly depending on your Android version (Android 10, 11, 12, 13, etc.) and device manufacturer (Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, etc.). Check your device's user manual or search online for instructions specific to your phone model.
This comprehensive guide should help you successfully move any app to your Android home screen. Remember to consult your device's manual for specific instructions if you encounter any difficulties.
