What are the 3 buttons at the bottom of Android called?

Answered by Willie Powers

The three buttons at the bottom of an Android device are commonly referred to as the Navigation bar. This Navigation bar is a staple feature on all Galaxy phones and tablets, providing users with a convenient way to navigate through their device.

1. Recents Button: This button, located on the far left of the Navigation bar, is represented by a square icon. Tapping on this button allows you to quickly access your recently used apps or switch between different tasks. When you tap the Recents button, a card-like interface will appear, displaying a list of your recently opened apps. You can then swipe left or right to navigate through the list and select the app you want to switch to.

2. Home Button: The Home button is situated in the middle of the Navigation bar and is represented by a circular icon. This button serves as a quick way to return to your device’s home screen from any app or screen you are currently on. Simply tap on the Home button, and you will be taken back to the main screen of your device, where you can access your app icons, widgets, and other features.

3. Back Button: The Back button is positioned on the far right of the Navigation bar and is represented by a left-facing arrow icon. This button allows you to navigate back to the previous screen or step within an app or system menu. For example, if you are browsing a webpage or using an app with multiple screens, tapping the Back button will take you back to the previous page or screen you were on. It is especially useful when you want to undo an action or retrace your steps.

These three buttons work together to provide a seamless navigation experience on Android devices. They allow you to switch between apps, return to the home screen, and go back to the previous screen or step, ensuring efficient and intuitive interaction with your device.

It’s worth mentioning that some newer Android devices have moved away from the traditional Navigation bar and opted for gesture-based navigation systems. These systems replace the physical buttons with swipe gestures on the screen. However, the classic three-button Navigation bar remains the default navigation method for most Galaxy phones and tablets.