4 Fixes for Google Search Bar or Widget Not Working on Android

Mehvish Mushtaq is a computer engineer by degree. Her love for Android and gadgets led her to develop the first Android app for Kashmir. Known as Dial Kashmir, she won the prestigious Nari Shakti award from the President of India. She has been writing about technology for 6+ years and her favorite categories include how-to guides, explainers, tips and tricks for Android, iOS/iPadOS, social media, and web apps.

Ankita enjoys exploring and writing about technology. Starting as a script and copywriter, her keen interest in the digital world pulled her towards technology. With GT, she has found her calling in writing about and simplifying the world of tech for others. On any given day, you can catch her chained to her laptop, meeting deadlines, writing scripts, and watching shows (any language!).

Basic Fixes:

Fix 1: Re-Add Search Widget

If the issue is only with the Google search bar or the widget, try re-adding them to your Android device’s home screen. To do that, first, remove the existing search bar or any other Google search widget and add it back again. We’re using the Google search bar for demonstration. Here’s how.

Step 1:Long-press on thewidget. Once the options appear, tap onRemove.

Step 2:Now, long-press on anyempty spaceand tap onWidgets.

Step 3:Tap onGoogleand tap on the relevantwidget. Tap onAddto re-add the widget.

Also Read:How to fix Google search bar widget missing in Android

Fix 2: Clear Google App Cache

Most apps use caches to help them perform faster. However, if this cache gets corrupted, it can affect app functions and even prevent the Google search bar or widget from working properly. In this case, clear the cache for the Google app and try again. Here’s how to do it.

Step 1:OpenSettingsand tap onApps. Here, tap onGoogle.

Step 2:Tap onStorage. Then, tap onClear cache.

Also Read:How to add Google search bar to home screen on Android and iPhone

Fix 3: Disable and Re-Enable Google App

If you still can’t use the Google search bar or widget, disable the app from the settings menu. This will stop all app functions. Then, re-enable the app to restart the Google app and see if this fixes the issue. Follow the below steps to do it.

Step 1:Go toSettings→Apps→Google. Here, tap onDisable.

Step 2:When prompted, tap onDisable appto confirm.

This will disable the Google app. Wait a while and tap on the Google app icon again to re-enable the app. Then, check again.

Fix 4: Disable Web & App Activity

If enabled, Google stores data from your web visits and other app activities to improve the user experience. However, this might interfere with Google search features. When this happens, use app settings to stop Google from storing your web and app activity data. Here’s how.

Tip:You can alsomanage your Google web and app activity settingson your desktop.

Step 1:Open theGoogle appand tap on yourprofile icon. Tap onSearch history.

Step 2:Here, tap onSaving to Web & App Activity.

Step 3:Tap onTurn offand selectTurn offfrom the options.

This will stop Google from saving your web and app activity. You can also use the options to delete your previous Google web and app activity data. Then, try using the Google search bar or widget again.

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Last updated on 27 June, 2024

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