App bar and header

The app bar and header component is a dedicated bar at the top of the app canvas that can be customized to display important app-related functions, such as branding, top-level navigation, and access to app controls.

Use consistent app bar and header layouts to place key controls, such as in-app search, in a standard location throughout the UI.

Anatomy

The app bar and header can include a variety of elements. It can be configured in either of these ways:

  • App header: When configured as an app header, the component contains space for optional text, with minimal use of icons and buttons. Typically, it includes a screen title and back arrow.
  • App bar: When configured as an app bar, it can include icons, tabs, and buttons. Typical elements include an app icon and navigational options.

Either of these versions can also include app controls, such as in-app search and settings.

App bar and header anatomy
Two versions of an app header (top and middle) and one version of an app bar (bottom), featuring the following elements:
1. Back arrow
2. Screen title
3. Button
4. App controls
5. App icon
6. Primary navigation (tabs)

Specs – App bar

App bar with primary navigation – center aligned

App bar with primary navigation – left aligned

App bar with primary navigation – collapsed (drawer instead of tabs)

Specs – App header

App header with centered title

App header with single app control

App header with multiple app controls

App header with single button

App header with multiple buttons

App header with text overflow

App header with standalone tab bar

Customization

You can express your brand by modifying the visual appearance of the app bar and header. Modifications might include:

  • Custom icons
  • Custom fonts
  • Setting the appearance of active, inactive, and disabled buttons
  • Setting button dimensions and placements

Examples

App header in sign-in
App header in playback
App bar
App bar when content is scrolled