Panels, a free Android app, effectively replicates Samsung's Edge Panel for non-Samsung users, offering swift app access and multitasking.
App Features and Setup
Panels provides a modern, minimal interface that is easy to set up. The user grants overlay permission, which allows a slim, translucent handle to appear on the screen edge. A simple swipe reveals a vertical launcher filled with customizable apps, shortcuts, and widgets.
- Setup requires display-over-other-apps permission.
- Panels can be customized with app icons, widgets, and shortcuts.
- Supports multiple panels for organized workflows.
Users can add apps, adjust row and column configurations, and reposition panels along any screen edge.
Enhanced Multitasking Experience
Users reported that swiping to access the panels offers a quicker multitasking experience than using Android's default recent-apps screen. With customized app panels featuring tools like Google Calendar, Gmail, and Maps, users found smoother navigation and task management.
Compatibility and Flexibility
After a month of use, Panels has been recognized as a strong alternative to Samsung's Edge Panel. While it may not have the same deep integration, its flexibility and compatibility with various launchers and widget support make it suitable for a wide range of Android devices.
