What are mobile search best practices?
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Include mobile search if the app is used for key activities, quick access to information on the go, or handling large datasets.
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Avoid mobile search if the app is primarily desktop-focused, has intuitive navigation, or involves minimal data interaction on mobile.
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Use a full-width search bar for apps requiring frequent and extensive searches.
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Place a magnifying glass icon in the navigation bar when search is important but not the app's primary focus.
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Embed search within a menu to maintain a clean interface when search is a secondary function.
Deep dive
When developing the mobile version of an enterprise application, it's important to apply mobile search best practices. Not every desktop search feature needs to be included on mobile. Instead, base your decisions on the purpose of the search bar in your app and how users behave on mobile devices.
When is the search bar important for mobile apps?
You need mobile search UX in your app if:
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It's essential for user activities. If users often use search on the desktop version for important tasks like finding customer information or checking inventory, then the mobile version should have this feature too.
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Users need quick info on the go. If your app is used by professionals who need fast access to information while out and about, like salespeople looking up client details during meetings, then mobile search in UI is a must.
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There's a lot of data. If users deal with a large amount of information, making it easy to search on mobile can boost their productivity.
When is a mobile search UX not needed?
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The app is primarily used on desktop: If users primarily engage with the application on desktop and only use the mobile version for basic interactions, the full search capability might not be required. For example, complex data entry tasks might be better suited for desktop environments.
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Simple, direct navigation: In apps where users can quickly reach their destinations through intuitive navigation, search functionality might be redundant. For instance, an app designed for quick approval processes or simple task management may not need a mobile app search bar.
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Limited data interaction on mobile: If the mobile app serves a distinct purpose with minimal data interaction, such as checking notifications or status updates, adding a mobile search in UI can complicate user interaction unnecessarily.
Where should I place a mobile search bar?
Full-width mobile search bar design
This is effective for apps that involve frequent searching through extensive data, ensuring users can quickly locate information.
Magnifying glass icon in the navigation bar
This setup is great for apps where search is important but not the main focus.
Search embedded in a menu
Best for apps where the search is a secondary function, maintaining a clean interface while allowing access when necessary.
🤝 Credits
Our content combines the knowledge of Cieden’s designers with insights from industry influencers. Big thanks to all the influencers for sharing awesome content!
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How To Design Search For Your Mobile App by Suzanne Scacca
📚 Keep exploring
Never stop growing. Explore resources thoughtfully handpicked by Cieden’s designers.
- Mobile UX Design: User-Friendly Search by Nick Babich