How to move the search bar back to the top on iOS 26

ykt28403 wrote:

How do I move the search bar back to the top on iOS 26? I want to move it back to the top in all the apps for which it's moved to the bottom, not just in a single app.

You can't, except in Safari. For everything else, the search bar has been relocated to the bottom of the screen and is hard coded into iOS 26 and not something you can change.

If you want to let Apple know you'd like it moved, you can use this link --> Feedback - iPhone - Apple

diehardskater wrote:

I just did an update. Why would you put the search bottom on the bottom of the screen, so you have to look down for it? Why did my clock change view change? I prefer the old camera icon over the new one

You aren't writing anyone from Apple here. This is a user to user only forum, which Apple doesn't participate. As users, we didn't change anything so asking 'why' questions here can't be answered. One can theorize why the search bar was moved to the bottom, which would likely be that for years, especially people who use their phone one handed, asked for the change.

The simple fact is every year, when the new iOS version is released, things change. That's how it goes with technology. Motor memory can be easily relearned and chances are after a while, you'll have no issue with where the search bar is located. I've been on iOS 26 since September and have adjusted just fine.

If you'd like to share your thoughts with Apple, however, this is where you send them --> Feedback - iPhone - Apple

ykt28403 wrote:

Thanks!

You're welcome.

I just did an update. Why would you put the search bottom on the bottom of the screen, so you have to look down for it? Why did my clock change view change? I prefer the old camera icon over the new one

diehardskater wrote:

I just did an update. Why would you put the search bottom on the bottom of the screen, so you have to look down for it? Why did my clock change view change? I prefer the old camera icon over the new one

The search bar on the bottom is closer to the keyboard when typing and makes sense to me. Other UI elements change every year, no matter if you are using an Apple iOS or Android OS. If you prefer the old camera icon, all you need to do is create a Shortcut where you can assign any icon you want and have it launch the Camera app when tapped. Toss the original camera app in the App Library and you won't see it on any of your Home Screens.

It is not clear if you updated to iOS 26.1 or if you now have iOS 26.2. With iOS 26.2, you now have much more customization options for the clock on the Lock Screen. You can adjust the Font, Thickness, and Color. We have seen many users here who have requested more customization options and they are always referred to the Feedback link to let Apple know what they would like to see. You can do that as well.

Product Feedback - Apple