Say Goodbye to Nova Launcher: Legendary Android Alternative Bows Out

The Google Play Store is filled with a variety of alternative Android launchers, but one that truly stands out is Nova Launcher, which has been a mainstay for over a decade. However, it now appears that the time has come to bid it farewell.

Among the millions of Android apps, while some fade from memory as quickly as they appear, others leave a lasting mark on their users. Nova Launcher, with 13 years under its belt and the title of most popular Android alternative launcher, is definitely one of these memorable apps.

But the future of the app was uncertain following its acquisition by Branch Metrics in 2022. After a company restructuring, the Nova Launcher team, which once had about a dozen members, was reduced to just one person in 2024: its founder, Kevin Barry. Despite his resolve, it was suspected that under such circumstances, Nova Launcher was likely to vanish. That time seems to have come, much to the dismay of the app’s many fans, who have expressed their sadness on social media.

A New Chapter for Android: The Likely End of Nova Launcher

Alternative launchers for Android are apps that customize the user interface and usability of the operating system. There are many available on the Google Play Store, but none have been as popular as Nova Launcher. It allowed users extensive control over their smartphone’s interface, from the style and size of icons to the app drawer and home screen. “Allowed” and “was”, yes, because it’s likely going to disappear soon.

It was Kevin Barry, the founder and original developer of the app, who announced his departure from Branch on September 6 in a farewell note. According to our colleagues at Android Authority, he stated that Nova Launcher will not be released as open source, although he had been preparing for such a release. This news essentially seals the fate of the app.

On Reddit, loyal users of Nova Launcher share their disappointment – and even their sorrow –, express their gratitude, reminisce about their experiences, and even describe the app as “legendary“. For some, it has been a companion since their first smartphone, shaping their Android experience and, according to some, even “contributing to Android’s success as a platform“.

For now, Nova Launcher, which has been downloaded tens of millions of times, is still available and functional. However, without a developer and no plans for open-source release, its eventual obsolescence is inevitable. If you are already on the lookout for a new alternative launcher, you can find our recommendations here.