US EditionNova Launcher Is Officially Dead, and Android Users Aren’t Taking It Well
Kevin Barry's exit halts Nova Launcher development, despite promises to release it as open source, leaving the project in limbo and its future uncertain.
- Kevin Barry, founder and sole developer of Nova Launcher, announced its shutdown in a blog post on September 6, 2025.
- In 2022, Nova Launcher was purchased by Branch, but by 2024, the company had reduced the development team to just Kevin Barry, the original creator, before eventually requesting that he cease working on the project.
- Nova Launcher, known for customizable features since 2011, had its last stable release in May 2024 and is now effectively discontinued.
- Wade stated the community deserves open-sourcing Nova, but he doubts Branch will act soon, while Austin’s prior promise complicates the open-source outlook.
- Barry’s exit and halted updates suggest Nova Launcher will fade from Android’s ecosystem, disappointing millions who valued its unique customization.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Nova Launcher is officially dead, and Android users aren’t taking it well
Nova Launcher, a leading Android launcher, is shutting down as announced by its founder Kevin Barry. Following its acquisition by Branch, the app faced staff layoffs and lack of updates. Barry plans to open source the code, but his departure leaves uncertainty for its future.
Many long-standing Android fans will know the Nova Launcher, some years ago alternative apps were important for the start screen and this app is on the front. But after the sale, the last "original" developer and thus the soul separates from the Nova Launcher – the project is over. The last users of Nova Launcher now want to win the Smart Launcher for themselves. There you advertise with many useful features and over 51 updates alone last year. …
Coverage Details
Bias Distribution
- 75% of the sources are Center
Factuality
To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium
