How to Get a Stock Android Look on EMUI (Without Rooting)
Huawei’s EMUI (Emotion UI) is known for its feature-rich interface and customization options. However, many users prefer the clean, minimalist look of stock Android. If you’re one of them, you’ll be glad to know that you can achieve a stock Android-like experience on your Huawei device without rooting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to transform your EMUI interface into something closer to stock Android.
Why Choose Stock Android?
Stock Android, also known as vanilla Android, is the pure version of the Android operating system developed by Google. It’s free from manufacturer or carrier bloatware, offering a clean, fast, and intuitive user experience. Here’s why many users prefer it:
- Minimalist Design: Stock Android has a simple, clutter-free interface.
- Smooth Performance: It’s optimized for speed and efficiency.
- Timely Updates: Devices running stock Android receive updates directly from Google.
- Consistency: The user experience is consistent across devices.
While EMUI offers many useful features, its heavy customization and pre-installed apps can make it feel bloated. Fortunately, with a few tweaks, you can bring the stock Android experience to your Huawei device.
Steps to Get a Stock Android Look on EMUI (No Root Required)
Below are the steps to achieve a stock Android-like look on your Huawei device without rooting. These methods involve using third-party apps, launchers, and system settings.
1. Install a Stock Android Launcher
The easiest way to get a stock Android look is by replacing the default EMUI launcher with a third-party launcher that mimics stock Android.
Recommended Launchers:
- Nova Launcher: Highly customizable and lightweight.
- Lawnchair Launcher: Offers a near-stock Android experience.
- Pixel Launcher: Mimics the look and feel of Google Pixel devices.
Steps to Install a Launcher:
- Download your preferred launcher from the Google Play Store.
- Open the launcher and follow the setup instructions.
- Set the launcher as your default home app:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps > Home App.
- Select your new launcher.
Customizing the Launcher:
- Use icon packs like Pixel Icon Pack or Whicons to match the stock Android look.
- Enable the Google Feed (if supported) for a Pixel-like experience.
2. Replace the Lock Screen
EMUI’s lock screen can feel heavy compared to stock Android. To get a cleaner look, use a third-party lock screen app.
Recommended Apps:
- AcDisplay: Mimics the stock Android lock screen.
- Next Lock Screen: Offers a minimalist design.
Steps to Install a Lock Screen App:
- Download the app from the Google Play Store.
- Follow the setup instructions.
- Set the app as your default lock screen (if required).
3. Use Stock Android Widgets
Stock Android widgets like the Google At a Glance widget can enhance your home screen’s look.
Steps to Add Widgets:
- Long-press on the home screen and select Widgets.
- Choose Google or your preferred widget provider.
- Add the At a Glance widget for a Pixel-like experience.
4. Change the System Font
EMUI’s default font can feel different from stock Android. You can change it to a font that resembles the stock Android font.
Steps to Change the Font:
- Go to Settings > Display > Font Style.
- Download and apply a font like Roboto (the default stock Android font).
5. Enable the App Drawer
By default, EMUI doesn’t have an app drawer, which is a staple of stock Android. You can enable it using a third-party launcher or EMUI settings.
Steps to Enable the App Drawer:
- Open your launcher’s settings (e.g., Nova Launcher).
- Enable the App Drawer option.
- Organize your apps for a cleaner look.
6. Replace EMUI Apps with Google Apps
Stock Android uses Google’s suite of apps, which are often more streamlined than Huawei’s alternatives.
Recommended Replacements:
- Phone App: Use Google Phone.
- Messages: Use Google Messages.
- Calendar: Use Google Calendar.
- Keyboard: Use Gboard.
Steps to Replace Apps:
- Download the Google apps from the Play Store.
- Set them as default apps in Settings > Apps > Default Apps.
7. Customize the Quick Settings Menu
EMUI’s quick settings menu can feel cluttered. You can reorganize it to resemble stock Android.
Steps to Customize Quick Settings:
- Swipe down to open the quick settings menu.
- Tap the Edit (pencil) icon.
- Drag and drop tiles to match the stock Android layout.
8. Use a Stock Android Theme
Some themes can mimic the stock Android look. While EMUI doesn’t support full themes like other Android skins, you can find lightweight themes that come close.
Steps to Apply a Theme:
- Go to Settings > Themes.
- Search for “Stock Android” or “Pixel” themes.
- Download and apply the theme.
9. Disable Bloatware
EMUI comes with pre-installed apps that can clutter your device. Disabling them can make your device feel closer to stock Android.
Steps to Disable Bloatware:
- Go to Settings > Apps.
- Select the app you want to disable.
- Tap Disable or Uninstall (if available).
10. Use Google Assistant
Stock Android devices prioritize Google Assistant. You can set it up on your Huawei device for a more authentic experience.
Steps to Enable Google Assistant:
- Download the Google Assistant app from the Play Store.
- Follow the setup instructions.
- Set it as your default assistant in Settings > Apps > Default Apps > Digital Assistant App.
11. Enable Dark Mode
Stock Android’s dark mode is sleek and easy on the eyes. You can enable it on EMUI for a similar look.
Steps to Enable Dark Mode:
- Go to Settings > Display > Dark Mode.
- Toggle on Dark Mode.
12. Use Stock Android Navigation Gestures
Stock Android’s navigation gestures are intuitive and minimal. You can enable similar gestures on EMUI.
Steps to Enable Gestures:
- Go to Settings > System > System Navigation.
- Select Gesture Navigation.
13. Install a Stock Android-Style Icon Pack
Icon packs can significantly change the look of your home screen. Use a pack that mimics stock Android icons.
Recommended Icon Packs:
- Pixel Icon Pack
- Whicons
- LineX
Steps to Apply an Icon Pack:
- Download the icon pack from the Play Store.
- Open your launcher’s settings.
- Apply the icon pack.
14. Use Google Wallpapers
Stock Android devices come with beautiful wallpapers. You can download the same wallpapers on your Huawei device.
Steps to Use Google Wallpapers:
- Download the Google Wallpapers app from the Play Store.
- Choose a wallpaper from the Living Universe or Landscapes collection.
15. Optimize Animations for a Stock Android Feel
Stock Android animations are smooth and subtle. You can adjust EMUI’s animations to match.
Steps to Adjust Animations:
- Go to Settings > System > Developer Options.
- Set Window Animation Scale, Transition Animation Scale, and Animator Duration Scale to 0.5x.
Final Thoughts
While EMUI is a feature-rich interface, it’s possible to achieve a stock Android-like look on your Huawei device without rooting. By using third-party launchers, apps, and themes, you can transform your device’s interface into something cleaner and more minimalist. Follow the steps in this guide to enjoy the best of both worlds: Huawei’s hardware and stock Android’s simplicity.
Remember, these tweaks are reversible, so feel free to experiment until you find the perfect setup for your needs. Enjoy your new, stock Android-inspired Huawei device!