One of the most iconic and widely used Android launchers, Nova Launcher, has officially reached the end of its journey. Known for its speed, flexibility, and unmatched customization options, the app stood as a cornerstone for Android users who wanted to personalize their devices beyond the default experience.
The turning point came when Kevin Barry, the sole developer of Nova Launcher, decided to step away from the project. Back in 2022, the app was acquired by the mobile analytics company Branch. At that time, the company promised the community that Nova’s core values would remain intact, assuring users that development would continue under Barry’s guidance. They even pledged that the launcher’s code would eventually be made open-source, regardless of future circumstances.
However, those promises have now faded. Recently, Barry announced his departure from Branch and confirmed that he would no longer be involved with Nova Launcher’s development. Moreover, Branch requested that Barry halt his plans to release the app as open-source, leaving the future of the once-beloved launcher uncertain.
While Nova Launcher will still function on existing devices, the likelihood of seeing new features, bug fixes, or updates is slim to none. For many Android enthusiasts, this marks not just the end of an app, but the end of an era in mobile customization.
Nova Launcher’s closure represents more than the discontinuation of a launcher — it symbolizes a decline in the free-spirited customization culture that defined the Android ecosystem for years.