Getting rid of the sidebar on the Gallery app for Android can enhance your viewing experience and provide a clutter-free interface. This blog post will guide you through various methods to accomplish this task. We will discuss the challenges you might face, things you should prepare for, and provide step-by-step instructions for different methods. Additionally, we will address why the sidebar cannot be removed by default and share some useful tips and frequently asked questions.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Removing the Sidebar on Gallery Android:
The default Gallery app on Android devices often includes a sidebar that displays different categories or albums. This sidebar can sometimes restrict your viewing area or create a cluttered interface. Unfortunately, the app does not provide a direct option to disable or remove the sidebar. However, there are several workarounds that can help you achieve the desired result.
Things You Should Prepare for:
Before we begin, there are a few things you should prepare for to successfully remove the sidebar on Gallery Android:
1. Backup your photos: It is always a good practice to back up your photos and albums to ensure you don’t lose any data during the process.
2. Install an alternative gallery app: In case the methods provided here do not work for your device or Android version, having an alternative gallery app installed can come in handy.
3. Familiarize yourself with your device’s settings: Some methods may require you to make changes in the device settings, so it’s good to have a basic understanding of navigating through the settings menu.
Method 1: Using a Third-Party Gallery App
1. Install a third-party gallery app from the Google Play Store, such as "Simple Gallery" or "QuickPic".
2. Open the newly installed gallery app.
3. Grant necessary permissions for the app to access your media files.
4. Explore the gallery app settings or preferences menu.
5. Look for an option to customize the interface or disable the sidebar.
6. Disable the sidebar option if available.
7. Go back to the home screen and open the gallery app to see if the sidebar is removed.
Pros:
– Offers additional features and customization options compared to the default Gallery app.
– Provides a clutter-free interface for better viewing experience.
– Ability to customize the gallery app according to personal preferences.
Cons:
– Installing and using a third-party gallery app may consume additional storage space on your device.
– The interface and functionality of the third-party app may differ from the default Gallery app.
– Some third-party gallery apps may include ads or require in-app purchases for full functionality.
Method 2: Using a Custom Launcher
1. Install a custom launcher app from the Google Play Store, such as "Nova Launcher" or "Apex Launcher".
2. Set the newly installed launcher as your default home screen launcher.
3. Long-press on the home screen to open the launcher settings.
4. Look for options related to hiding or disabling app drawers or sidebars.
5. Disable or hide the app drawer or sidebar option, if available.
6. Exit the settings and go back to the home screen to see if the sidebar is removed.
Pros:
– Offers extensive customization options for the entire device interface, not just the Gallery app.
– Can remove the sidebar from multiple apps, providing a consistent interface across all apps.
– Custom launchers often come with additional features and enhancements.
Cons:
– Changing the default launcher may require some adjustment for familiarizing with the new interface.
– Some custom launchers may have limitations or compatibility issues with certain devices or Android versions.
– Installing and using a custom launcher may consume additional storage space and system resources.
Method 3: Using a Gallery Mod
1. Research and find a gallery mod specifically designed for removing the sidebar.
2. Download the mod APK file from a trusted source.
3. Open the downloaded file and proceed with the installation process.
4. Grant necessary permissions for the mod to access your media files.
5. Open the newly installed gallery mod app.
6. Explore the app settings or preferences menu.
7. Look for an option to disable or remove the sidebar.
8. Disable the sidebar option if available.
9. Go back to the home screen and open the gallery mod app to see if the sidebar is removed.
Pros:
– Provides a dedicated and optimized solution for removing the sidebar from the Gallery app.
– May offer additional features and customization options compared to the default Gallery app.
– Removes the sidebar without affecting the functionality of other apps or the device interface.
Cons:
– Finding a trusted and reliable gallery mod may be challenging.
– Installing mods from unknown sources can pose security risks to your device.
– Gallery mods may not receive regular updates or support, potentially leading to compatibility issues.
Method 4: Via Accessibility Settings
1. Open the Settings app on your Android device.
2. Scroll down and select "Accessibility" or "Accessibility & Ease of Access".
3. Look for the "Vision" or "Display" category.
4. Find and enable the "Magnification" or "Magnify with triple-tap" option.
5. Triple-tap on the screen anywhere in the Gallery app.
6. Use the magnification feature to zoom in on the gallery interface.
7. The sidebar may automatically disappear or become more compact in the zoomed-in view.
Pros:
– No need to install third-party apps or modify system settings extensively.
– Can be quickly enabled or disabled without any permanent changes.
– Allows easy navigation in the Gallery app without the sidebar obstructing the view.
Cons:
– This method only provides a temporary solution while using the magnification feature.
– The magnified view may not provide the same level of usability and functionality as the default interface.
– Triple-tapping on the screen may accidentally activate other accessibility features.
Why Can’t I Remove the Sidebar by Default?
There could be several reasons why the Gallery app does not include an option to remove the sidebar:
1. User preferences: The sidebar is intended to provide easy access to different categories or albums, which some users may find useful.
2. Design consistency: The developers of the Gallery app may have designed the interface with the sidebar as a fundamental component to maintain consistency with other system apps.
3. Compatibility issues: Removing the sidebar could potentially create compatibility issues with other apps or functionality within the Gallery app.
To address these issues, the methods mentioned above provide alternative options for removing the sidebar and customizing your Gallery experience.
Additional Tips:
1. Explore alternative gallery apps: If none of the provided methods work for your device or Android version, consider installing alternative gallery apps that offer more customization options.
2. Check for app updates: Keep your default Gallery app or any alternative gallery apps updated to benefit from new features or improvements.
3. Personalize your gallery view: Take advantage of other available customization options, such as changing the layout, sorting options, or adding filters and effects to enhance your gallery viewing experience.
5 FAQs about Removing the Sidebar on Gallery Android:
Q1: Can I remove the sidebar without installing any third-party apps?
A: Unfortunately, the default Gallery app does not provide an option to remove the sidebar. Therefore, using a third-party app or alternative method is necessary.
Q2: Will removing the sidebar on Gallery affect the functionality of other apps?
A: No, removing the sidebar on the Gallery app will not affect the functionality of other apps on your device. It only modifies the interface of the Gallery app.
Q3: Will these methods work on all Android devices?
A: The effectiveness of these methods may vary depending on the Android version, device model, and gallery app version. It’s advisable to test the methods on your specific device to determine compatibility.
Q4: Can I revert the changes and bring back the sidebar?
A: Yes, most methods mentioned above offer an option to revert the changes made and bring back the sidebar if desired.
Q5: Are custom launchers safe to use?
A: Reputable custom launchers from trusted sources are generally safe to use. However, it’s always recommended to read user reviews and verify the legitimacy of any app before installation.
In Conclusion:
Removing the sidebar from the Gallery app on Android can provide a more immersive and clutter-free viewing experience. While the default Gallery app does not offer an option to remove the sidebar, various methods can help you achieve this customization. Whether through third-party gallery apps, custom launchers, or gallery mods, you can adapt the interface according to your preferences. Additionally, remember to back up your photos, be cautious with installations, and explore alternative apps for further customization.