Google plans to replace the "Back" button of Android by a gesture in Android Q

Android Pie has introduced a new navigation system based on gestures that have essentially replaced the lower bar. This is no secret, many users have not joined and wanted to stick to the buttons on the screen. Some manufacturers like Samsung have even preferred to replace it all with their own design, and Google seems to have understood the message because it is starting to rethink the controls in its operating system, apparently taking its inspiration for iOS. Despite these new designs, the company has kept the Back button, creating an inconsistency between gestures and buttons to interact with the device. Rumor has it that Google was considering removing the virtual key to create a fully swept navigation system. New information reveals that Android Q could include more commands inspired by iOS, considering the company to replace the back button with a gesture.

As you can see in the video above, the latest version of Android Q lets you slide your finger from the edge of the screen to go backwards, as you would on an iPhone X / XS / XR. It is interesting to note that you can slide your finger from either side of the screen, but the arrow points in the left direction in both cases, which confirms that the function is supposed to bring you to the previous screen.

This feature is still experimental, however, and is not enabled by default. Indeed, it is not clear if it will be retained for the final version, especially since it may interfere with already existing gestures, such as that of opening the menu of burgers. However, you can not blame Google for considering it because third-party software, such as Samsung's One Hand Operation or Edge Gestures, already allows you to do that.

If you want to try it, you will need to run the ADB commands below to enable it:

We'll let you know as soon as we know more about the availability of this feature and Google's choice to officially adopt it.