Android 4.4: Restore transparent navigation bar
The transparent navigation bar is one of the new features of Android 4.4. The black background behind the on-screen software buttons is hidden and a little more transparent. So you see more of your app and the screen looks much larger.
How to get the transparent navigation bar again
The transparent navigation bar only works if you have installed at least Android 4.4 and the relevant apps support the feature.
- The Nexus 5 is the only device to offer the new Google Experience Launcher with transparent bars. You can also download it here for other devices with Android 4.4.
- In the settings go to the "Home" sub-item. Now select the "Overview" app. Now your navigation bar should be transparent on the home screen again.
- On other devices you can also use the "Nova Launcher" under Android 4.4. The transparent navigation bar is activated in the Nova settings under "Appearance"> "Transparent notification bar".
Read also how to activate the runtime environment and start widgets under Android 4.4.