[paulphilly]

Is there a way to minimize this on my home screen?

[mavrrick]

Nope, but it is a widget. If you won't want it displayed just get rid of it. You should be able to configure the phone to open Google search on a long press on the home button.

Posted via the Android Central App

[jordyd]

I can minimize it on my Note 4 - have they taken the option away now then?

[andrew_ackley]

Is there a way to minimize this on my home screen?

If you hold down on top of it up can drag it to the top of the screen and remove it

Posted via the Android Central App

[anon(5719825)]

I've always deleted it on all my phones. I think it makes the home screen look ugly.

[rdrive41071]

There is an option to open Google by voice command. Just set that up in the app and then discard the widget, it opens up in any screen, even on lock screen - just say (ok Google).

Posted via the Android Central App