Of all the apps you can install on your new Android phone, a solid app launcher can be the biggest transformation in your user experience, unlocking depths of customization most OEM-provided solutions are only starting to fathom. Talk to any enthusiast who’s watched the launcher scene, and they may point you to older, reliable options like Nova Launcher and Smart Launcher as a good starting point.
Smart Launcher is around 12 years old, and that’s a long time to keep a passion project up and running. We blocked some quality time with the app’s creator, Vincenzo Colucci, to understand his perspective on what it takes to stay relevant as an older Android launcher, especially since the app segment is more competitive now.
Obligatory Nova Launcher is all but abandoned by it’s parent company and shouldn’t be recommended anymore. They fired all but one dev who is moreorless still there for trying to put out the fires. It’s not a lasting project.
Its for these reasons launchers like Niagara, Smart launcher 6, Action launcher are not cheap.