The home screen only shows apps and widgets deliberately placed there, while the app drawer automatically lists every installed app. This keeps the home screen customizable without losing track of any app.
Software & system
App Drawer: Definition & explanation
In a nutshell
The app drawer is a separate screen on Android devices that lists all installed apps, usually alphabetically, apart from the home screen. It keeps the home screen tidy while still giving quick access to every app.
How does App Drawer work?
The app drawer is a core UI concept in Android launchers. It acts like a directory: every installed app automatically appears there, regardless of whether it's also placed on a home screen. Users typically open it by swiping up or tapping a dedicated icon. The home screen itself then only shows apps and widgets the user has deliberately placed there.
This concept fundamentally differs from iOS, where all apps sit directly on the home screens by default (a similar feature exists only in limited form via the App Library since iOS 14). Manufacturer launchers like Samsung's One UI typically offer the app drawer by default but often let users switch to a drawer-free mode where all apps appear directly on the home screen.
The app drawer can usually be searched, filtered, or sorted alphabetically or by installation date. Some launchers also allow hiding individual apps or creating folders within the drawer. For users with many installed apps, the app drawer provides a practical organizational system that maintains clarity without cluttering the home screen.
Advantages of App Drawer
- Keeps the home screen clutter-free
- All apps in one central place
- Search and sorting simplify finding apps
- No need to manually arrange every app
Disadvantages of App Drawer
- One extra step to reach apps
- Unfamiliar for switchers from iOS
- Some launchers offer limited customization
- Not default on every Android skin
Frequently asked questions
iOS doesn't have a classic app drawer, but since iOS 14 it offers the App Library, which automatically groups apps into categories. It doesn't fully replicate Android's free, alphabetical listing though.
Guides with App Drawer
No linked guides for this term yet.