Usage guide | GrapheneOS

By default, GrapheneOS uses gesture-based navigation. We recommend reading our guide on gesture navigation and giving it a chance even if you think you won't like it. Our experience is that when armed with the appropriate knowledge, the vast majority of users prefer the newer gesture navigation approach.

The system navigation mode can be configured in Settings → System → Gestures → System navigation. The same menu is also available in Settings → Accessibility → System navigation.

The bottom of the screen is a reserved touch zone for system navigation. A line is displayed in the center to show that the navigation bar is present across the entire bottom of the screen. In most apps, this area will display padding. Modern apps are able to tell the OS that they can handle not having the padding to display app content there while still not being able to receive touches from it. Open up the Settings app for an example.

Swiping up from the navigation bar while holding your finger on the screen before releasing is the Recent Apps gesture. The most recently opened activity is always on the furthest right. Each step left goes one step back through the history of recently opened apps. Opening an app with the recent apps activity will place it on the furthest right in the recent apps order just like a new app being opened.

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