Whether you’re just looking for minimalism or depend on a simplified user interface, there are plenty of reasons why you might want to enable Simple View on a Google Pixel phone. This is a new mode available as part of Android 15 following the release of the Pixel feature in December. Essentially, the option will change multiple accessibility settings at once to make your smartphone easier to use.
Simple View is a new feature, so you may not know exactly what it does. Luckily, we’ve put together this guide with everything you need to know about Simple View, including how to enable and use it.
How Simple View works on Pixel phones
Google added Simple View to Pixels with the December feature drop, and it’s available as an accessibility option. This setting is a quick way to change many of your Android phone’s accessibility features at once. Here is the full list of changes to Simple View on Pixel Launcher:
- Larger text and icon sizes
- Simplified home screen layout
- Simplified 3-button navigation buttons
- Higher touch sensitivity
- Contact, Clock, and Weather app shortcuts*
- High contrast wallpaper*
- Increased application grid to 4×4 display*
- Suggested apps locked*
*Only available when enabling Simple View from Pixel device setup.
Although Simple View changes many settings at once, it doesn’t prevent you from changing them later. You can always change your Pixel’s display, layout, navigation, and font settings. Additionally, if you turn off Simple View, your phone’s preferences will be reverted to their original preferences.
Notably, the option is currently not available for the Pixel Fold, Pixel 9 Pro Fold, or Pixel Tablet.
How to enable Simple View when setting up Pixel device
To get the full Simple View experience, you’ll need to start from scratch by resetting your Pixel to factory settings. The only way to lock features like app shortcuts, 4×4 app grid, high contrast wallpaper, and suggested apps is to enable Simple View when setting up the device Pixel. Note that factory resetting to enable Simple View will erase all data on your phone.
Once you land at the beginning of Pixel device setup, here’s how to enable Simple View:
1. Turn on your Pixel phone. You should see the Welcome to your Pixel screen.
2. Press Accessibility.
3. Press Configure with Simple View.
4. Toggle the toggle next to it Use simple view.
How to enable Simple View after setting up Pixel device
You can also enable Simple View after setting up your device using the Settings app. However, not all changes made to Simple View will take effect. Here’s how to do it:
1. Open the Settings app.
2. Press Accessibility.
3. Find it Quick access section, then tap Simple view.
4. Toggle the toggle next to Use simple view.
Why You May Want to Use Simple View on a Pixel
Google Pixel devices are some of the best Android phones, and part of that is because they get exclusive features that no other Android handset gets. Simple View is one such feature. If you’re having trouble using the default Android UI or just want a simpler experience, Simple View might be the solution.
A fantastic Android phone
The Google Pixel 9 runs Android 15 and gets all the Pixel features, meaning it will continue to get great features like Simple View. It’s also highly customizable, features the Tensor G4 chipset, and has an excellent camera system.
