Related
Right we all know that the launcher that will be coming with this beast of a phone will be Rosie. For me though i like to have a variety. So putting this thread together to give you guys a variety of Launchers i found on the market. So rather than having to find them all over the place i will keep everything here in one place and will try and find as many as i can and update the thread with any further updates the developers release for the launchers.
Apex Launcher
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Features include:
Customizable homescreen grid size and up to 9 homescreens
Scrollable dock with up to 7 icons per page and up to 5 pages
Infinite & elastic scrolling (homescreen, drawer and dock)
Fancy transition effects (tablet, cube, etc.)
Hide elements as you want (persistent search bar, status bar, or even the dock)
Customizable icons and labels for shortcuts and folders
Choose different folder preview styles and background
Multiple drawer styles (transparent/opaque, horizontal/vertical, paginated/continuous)
Drawer apps sorting (title, install date, mostly used)
Hide apps from the drawer
Lock your desktop to prevent accidental changes
Enjoy homescreen gestures (pinch, swipe up/down, double tap)
Advanced theme engine (icon packs, skins, etc.)
Backup/restore settings and data
Optimized for both phones and tablets
Lots of other customization options!
Nova Launcher
Features include:
Scrollable Dock (for Tablets and Phones)
Keep all your favorite apps on the dock, with up to 7 icons per page and up to 3 pages.
Customizable App Drawer:
Transparency
Scrolling style, choose between horizontal paginated or vertical continuous
Scroll Effects
Enjoy eye candy when scrolling your desktop and drawer. Effects include Cube and Cardstack and more for Prime users.
Infinite Scroll
Never be far from your favorite page, loop through your desktop continuously.
Folder Icons
You can chose a background, preview style or even replace the whole icon.
Backup/Restore
Export your settings and layout before a wipe to quickly get back up and running.
Widgets in dock
Add any 1x1 widget to the dock
Bulk Add
Add multiple apps to the desktop or a folder at once
Activities shortcut
Select hidden activities from your favorite apps
*Nova Launcher Prime Features (Paid version)*
Highly customizable, performance driven, home screen replacement for Android 4.0+
Nova Launcher Prime unlocks the following features in Nova Launcher:
Drawer Groups:
Folders in App Drawer
Unlimited custom tabs
Organize apps into tabs and folders in the app drawer
Gestures
Quickly start Nova Actions or Apps from gestures on the desktop, such as pinching, swiping or two-finger swiping.
Hide Apps
Keep a clutter free drawer by hidding never used apps.
Dock Swipes
Get more use out of your dock apps by setting swipe-actions
Unread Counts
Never miss an email. Unread count badges for SMS, Missed calls and Gmail. Counts show in the dock, desktop, drawer and folders.
More Scroll Effects
Zeam Launcher
Description
To add Applications grid shortcut, select Add > Shortcuts > Applications grid.
Try toggle Manage wallpaper if screen scrolling isn't smooth, select Preferences > Workspace > Manage wallpaper.
Zeam, thanks to its minimal aesthetic, not only looks fast but feels fast. It's also incredibly simple to use, and unlike the other launchers it actually works very well out of the box.
My favorite feature in Zeam is configurable gestures -- but not only can you bind swipe actions, like ADW, but you can also bind double tapping the screen and the Home hardware button to actions.
TSF Shell
Features:
Enable you to do multipul-operation, including auto-arragement, multipul-choices, add-to-folder, multipul-deleting, to the items by only one move of the finger. You can also check your folders in various ways.
TSF SHELL 3D has one app page and 4 personalized pages for our users. You can switch between pages by one click at the switch button in the lower left corner.
You can freely create one or more quicklinks for apps and drag them to any page. You can also distribute all the app icon (or even change their angles) freely in the personalized page.
The side column provides the most TSF Shell 3D charateristic widgets, including folders, contacts, music player, weather and so on.
The side column can be personalized as well, including changing the order and position of different catagories. You can create quicklinks of your most frequently used apps and contact in the quick launch in the side column.
TSF Shell 3D has a most powerful theme function. Apart from the difference in style, some themes even allow change in the transition animation.
Tips:
1. The folder where the application is less than 8, only to circle the icon into the folder.
2. The folder where the application is more than 8, only to drag the icon ftom the folder.
SSLauncher
Features
Decorate screen with a variety of styles for shortcuts and widgets.
Create a widget poping up when tap a shortcut.
Support formatted text for current date & time, missed calls and unread SMS/MMS messages.
Support scrollable widgets.
Easy and quick access to pages for contacts, bookmarks, application drawer, application group.
Many useful features of application drawer: app parcel(folder), showing/hiding app, marking star for favorites apps, changing application icon and name, uninstalling app and so on
Create application group and manage list by drag and drop.
Save and load your theme, page layouts and settings.
Convert the saved theme file to apk. (contact us by e-mail for more informations)
Hide status bar, open status bar by swiping down.
You can implement nice screen without launcher 7, dvr, minimalistic text, wp clock, clockr etc.
Go Launcher EX Launcher
Features:
Thousands of personalized themes
Various widgets and screen locks (weather, switcher, calendar…)
Extremely smooth transition animation
Smooth flipping operation
User-defined folder to easily categorize apps
Many options in preferences to help you customize you phone!
=Tips=
1. How to get themes, widgets and lockers?
a) Search ‘go launcher theme’, ‘go widget’ or ‘go locker’ in Android Market.
b) Use GO Store via menu button in GO Launcher.
2. How to set transition animation?
Use ‘Effects settings’ via button in GO Launcher.
3. Icons are too small?
Use ‘Icon Size’ option in ‘Preferences->Visual settings->Icons’ to make icons bigger.
3. Long press the app icon to enter editing mode on home screen and app drawer.
4. Glide up to open menu and glide down to pull down notification.
Launcher 7 Windows Phone 7 Style Launcher
Description and features
Unlike other current WP7 launchers (Windows Phone Android, Metro UI), this one allows you to properly modify your start screen. Just long press on a tile and drag tile where you want!
This version is free, but does have an ad in application list. Ad free donate version is available if you don't like the ad.
Also supported:
2 x 1 tiles
Original Windows Phone 7 backgrounds!
Freely configurable tile colors
Launcher options are available from Application List (press menu in app list)
Layout animations
Animated contacts tile! (still work in progress)
Windows 7 Launcher Pro has the following features:
1x1, 2x1 and 1x2 tiles with configurable colors
Widgets in a tile! (provided that widget fits)
Almost real like tile animation
Almost real like tile re-arrange mode
Almost real like status bar
Animated contacts tile (supports G+ synced contacts)
Pinnable contact-tile which animates like the real phone
Folder tiles
Webpage tiles
Picture hub (use with care, it needs memory!!!!)
Filterable application list
Stock wp7-like colors and color selection
CC3D Launcher
Description and features
CC 3D Launcher is a fashion, funny, cool "home replacement" app. It maximizes your user experience on your Android phone, with the newest Android 4.0 feeling.
Highlights:
Simple, Fast, Fluid, Powerful, Efficient, in High Definition
Features:
Android 4.0 Experience
Folder Management(overlay icons to create folder; drive-and-drop icons into folder; rearrange icons of folder)
3D effects: Full 360 degree rotation. Different animations and transitions. Zoom in, zoom out
Various screen transition animations
Apps'icons with special graphic effects
Widgets (weather, switch & monitor, calendar, slides, contacts, SMS, music, etc)
MIUI Home Launcher
Description and features
Optimization: substantially optimize drawing performance, and speed sliding screen switching experience
Optimization: significant reduction in memory size
Optimization: improve the speed of the initial start
Optimization: Improving Desktop to quickly switch design details to improve the animation efficiency
Fix: in some models, press the HOME key to unlock directly
Repair: the icon does not change after changing theme style
Repair: the cascade and the box to cut the screen effects
Fix: some models (NS 4.0.4, etc.) icon layout
Features:
Unique MIUI theme interface and gestures
8000+ Themes, Wallpapers and Ringtones available!
Support for up to 9 screens or more
Works on all NON-MIUI ICS 4.0 based devices.
SPB Shell 3DLauncher
Description and features
ADW Launcher
Description and features
ADW.Launcher, beyond tweaking your android desktop
Opensource home replacement app
Customizable application drawer (old one or iphone/galaxy one)
Customizable drag&drop action buttons
Unveil the Dockbar flicking-up the app-drawer button and drop UNLIMITED shortcuts/folders!
Themes
MXHome Launcher
Description and features
MX Home is an launcher application that is specialized in 3D effects on its 'Theme page'
It provides totally different experiences by highlights from 3D effects and creative ideas.
▣ Major Features
Dynamic 3D G-sensor movement
Various graphic & sound effects
Coffee bean poping-out effect by shake
3D water bubble background effect
Shortcuts for 8 major App.’s
Control tray
[Battery, Wi-Fi, BT & sound]
▣ Easy Management
Quick App. manager
*Edit / Info / Delete / Uninstall
Quck task manager
*Just touch on Smart Menu icon at workspace
*Close all application / View recent run
▣ Icon Pack
Workspace Array - 4*4, 5*5
Live icon effect - Zoon, Bounce, Rotation
▣ Dock Bar
MX Button - 3D MX theme open
Scroll type - Horizontal, Vertical
▣ MX Theme
Theme Change : Text -> Image
Theme Position : Up, Down, Left, Right
▣ Application
User Icon' dock menu
*enables a user to change icons at dock menu
Smart menu
*sort by Categrory / ABC / Date
View of memory usage
▣ Icon Pack
Workspace Array - 4*4, 5*5
Live icon effect - Zoon, Bounce, Rotation
▣ Dock Bar
MX Button - 3D MX theme open
Scroll type - Horizontal, Vertical
▣ MX Theme
Theme Change : Text -> Image
Theme Position : Up, Down, Left, Right
Lightning Launcher
Description and features
Lose the fat, keep the muscle. Be warned, Lightning Launcher is on steroïds.
Lightning Launcher: Lose the fat, keep the muscle. Be warned, this launcher is on steroïds.
Tips, please read this first:
Use "LLW App Widget" if you want to add Android widgets.
This app is started through the HOME key and not from your app drawer since LL is itself a launcher. If you cannot select it through the HOME key then you need to clear the defaults for your current launcher.
for any question or suggestion, do not hesitate to ask: [email protected]
This application has been designed to minimize memory usage and be fast: the more memory you have for your applications, the faster they will run. In other words Lightning Launcher has been built from the ground to preserve your phone's resources and keep it smooth.
In spite of its ridiculously small size (less than 60kb!), Lightning Launcher is packed with a fair amount of features and brings to Android a very unique concept: the home screen can be seen as a giant surface on which you are free to put icons, shortcuts or widgets exactly where YOU WANT, and not limited to a 4x4 grid. Pinch to zoom in or out the desktop, use the home key to switch between a full scale view or the normal size, or double tap on empty space as in the web browser to immediately see all your icons. And everything stay functional whatever the zoom level is: widgets are alive, icons can be clicked, and so on.
Lightning Launcher drops rarely used features and focuses on useful ones but comes nevertheless with numerous customization options. Icons and widgets can be moved, scaled and even rotated freely. Each object can be configured independently, you can change the font, the label, the icon and much more !
The package is extremely small, only a few kilobytes. What it means is that the Android system do not need to load several megabytes to run this app. Lightning Launcher starts faster and run in perfect harmony with your other apps.
For people kindly asking why the CALL_PHONE permission is needed (notice that this the only one needed by LL!): this is needed for direct call shortcuts, and this permission is included in all major launchers, including Go and Pro.
For other people not asking why and putting stupid one star comments: go away, you have just lost a unique chance to try something new and better, have a good day.
DXHome Launcher
Description and features
DXHome, a highly customized launcher replacement app., is a perfect launcher for Android phones. It is created by the Dianxinos Enterpriser team in Innovation Works invested by Dr. Kaifu Lee. Highly customizable with various themes, colorful desktop transitions, easy operating……, just like its name in Chinese, Dianxin is making the home of your Android phone colorful and enjoyable!
What could you get from DXHome?
So many themes to enjoy!
Want your phone to change with your mood?! Try themes we designed for you!
DXHome presents its first six themes of totally different styles!
NO.1 Dianxin Default Desktop Theme--- it is peaceful, clear, warm……, all the nice feelings DXHome wants you to feel. Name it by yourself. It’s our gift~^-^~
NO.2 Midsummer Theme--- get fidgety from the hate outside? Pick some cool and fresh air here!
NO.3 Cake Theme--- are you a foody? How about some candy and cakes now~^-^~ Try it and tell us how it’s like? DXHome is “cooking” more and more for you if you like~
NO.4 Batman— a big Batman fan? Here he comes! COOL!
NO.5 Clothing— want your phone to be cute? DXHome makes suit for your icon! Try it on!
NO.6 Tree & Shadow— at the end, come and sit down beside the tree, just enjoy the peaceful nightfall now.
Espier Launcher
Description and features
Espier Launcher is the best launcher for your smartphone
Espier Launcher is a desktop for your smartphone or tablet which is based on Android 2.2 or later. It brings you an entirely new interaction experience, and makes your smartphone and/or tablet to be different from the rest.
Main Features
Simplified Menu
Rename and hide the apps
Theme manager
Icons arrange
Internet
Support android 4.0
EZ Launcher
Description and features
EZ Launcher, the most convenent way to operate your phone.
EZ Launcher(beta) is coming, a cool home replacement app, with the most convenient way to operate & organize your phone.
#Features:
Genius app list brings you the app you most want
Auto category can help you automatically categorize your apps
Quick app search to find the app you want in app list directly
Pre-loaded app manager tool with all task manager, uninstaller, app2sd and etc functions in one place
Useful and handy widgets: Clock & Weather Widget, Task Manager Widget, SMS Widget, Switch Widget, Bookmark Widget, Calendar Widget
Hide folders page, hide apps in app drawer
LauncherPro
Description and features
Simple. Powerful. Fast. Customizable.
If you can't open it, download "ClearDefaultHome" or "Home Switcher"
- Super-smooth scrolling
- Animated screen previews (like Exposé or HTC Sense)
- Up to 7 home screens
- App drawer (2D and 3D!) with a fly-in effect and smooth scrolling
- Scrollable shortcut dock
More to come.
Download Links
Links
Apex Launcher: Link to download
Nova Launcher: Link to download
SSLauncher: Link to download
Zeam Launcher: Link to download
TSF Shell Launcher: Link to download
Go Launcher EX: Link to download
Launcher 7 Windows phone 7 Style Launcher: Link to download Pro Version - Link to download free version
CC3D Launcher: Link to download
MIUI Home Launcher: Link to download
SPB Shell 3DLauncher: Link to download
MXHome Launcher: Link to download
ADW Launcher: Link to download
Lightning Launcher: Link to download
EZ Launcher: Link to download
DXHome Launcher: Link to download
Espier Launcher: Link to download
LauncherPro: Link to download
Special Link for a more detailed description for launchers here. There you can read a more detailed description of a variety of Launchers from GB to ICS and what are the pros and the cons.
Many thanks to Ohamn for the link and for taking the time to writing that article.
Lockscreen collection with download links
Widgetlocker
Description and features
WidgetLocker is a lock screen replacement that puts you in control of the look, feel and layout of your lock screen.
Drag and Drop placement of Sliders, Android Widgets and App Shortcuts
Sliders look selectable from built-in styles (Ice Cream Sandwich, Gingerbread, Sense and Sense 3, Motorola, iPhone, and Rotary) or from user-themes.
Slider Actions can be customized, for example Slide-to-launch-Camera or Slide-to-call-your-Girlfriend.
Resizable widgets and custom grid size
Notification badges on apps/sliders via TeslaUnread (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.teslacoilsw.notifier )
Customize which widgets/buttons are allowed or blocked at the lock screen
Download Link: Here
MagicLocker
Description and features
Magic Locker is most colorful and simple lock screen app for Android! Various of lock screen Themes to match your style and make your mobile outstanding!
Features:
Shortcut Customization
More Theme Customization(like position,alpha,skin,show/hide somethings)
Activate phone, SMS ,Camera and other shortcuts directly from lock screen;
Screen Lock Security
Support customise wallpaper and live wallpaper.
Support customise date format
Support system security pattern (settings->Location and security->Set up screen lock. For HTC: Settings-> Security->Set up screen lock)
Block Home Key
Support to enable/disable volume rocker wake up screen
Support to send Email, mak phone call, open URL ect. directly on lockscreen.
Support to pull down notification bar
The Magic Locker Main App just includes one theme - 'Lost Robot', as the default theme,
Download Link: Here
GoLocker
Description and features
Features:
1. Cool Locker Screen that makes your phone outstanding;
2. Good compatibility with GO Launcher EX and it is stable;
3. Easy to use;
4. Able to activate phone, SMS and Camera directly or you can change the slider shortcuts yourself;
5. Various of Locker Themes to match your style;
6. Support customise wallpaper;
7. Security locker;
8. Emergency unlock enabled;
Tips:
1. Make sure GO Launcher EX V2.58 or above has been installed;
2. Click “MENU—-Preferences—-Theme Settings—-GO Locker” to use it after installed;
3. Click “My locker” to preview and Download more Locker themes;
Download Link: Here
No Lock
Description and features
Tired of the lock screen?
Use your phone as quickly as possible, with No Lock!
Tired of the lock screen?
If you want to use your phone as quickly as possible, this app is for you.
It simply disables the lock screen. Press the unlock/menu button just once and the screen turns on immediately.
Download Link: Here
More Launchers have been added to OP and links have been added in Post 2.
Enjoy
GoLocker added to post 3 guys
Nice, you should be a recognized contributor..
torxx said:
Nice, you should be a recognized contributor..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
hi ya. thank you for your kind words but i got declined for it.
excellent thread, i didn't even know all these options exist.
did you forget LauncherPro?
as far as a personal reccomendation - on the One S I've used ADW, GoLauncher, Zeam, Apex, Nova, and LauncherPro - and my favorite is GoLauncher. The power of the One S hardware makes GoLauncher's effects and visual style work fluidly and look great. It balances speed and customization VERY well.
chim4ira312 said:
excellent thread, i didn't even know all these options exist.
did you forget LauncherPro?
as far as a personal reccomendation - on the One S I've used ADW, GoLauncher, Zeam, Apex, Nova, and LauncherPro - and my favorite is GoLauncher. The power of the One S hardware makes GoLauncher's effects and visual style work fluidly and look great. It balances speed and customization VERY well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
will add LauncherPro for you now my friend.
for me honestly i prefer Apex after Rosie to be honest
EDIT: LauncherPro added to OP and post 3 for download
Goku80 said:
hi ya. thank you for your kind words but i got declined for it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will talk to the people again, you deserve it.
torxx said:
I will talk to the people again, you deserve it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
you can try but i do not think they will..but no harm in trying..thank you again..anyway it is not about a status my friend it is about helping out each other and this is my way of thanking xda for the many awesome stuff they develop and make my phone even awesome
Wow you put a lot into this thanks for all the information I really didn't know all those launchers are available.
Sent from my HTC VLE_U using xda premium
ickedmel said:
Wow you put a lot into this thanks for all the information I really didn't know all those launchers are available.
Sent from my HTC VLE_U using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Me neither to be honest but trust me looks like there are loads more we have not seen yet
Sent from my HTC One X using Tapatalk 2
New Lockscreen (with a twist) added to post 3. Video included to give you guys better explanation of what i am talking about.
Hope you guys like the twist in that lockscreen and hit the thanks as well if you want.
How to remove menu dots...
chim4ira312 said:
excellent thread, i didn't even know all these options exist.
did you forget LauncherPro?
as far as a personal reccomendation - on the One S I've used ADW, GoLauncher, Zeam, Apex, Nova, and LauncherPro - and my favorite is GoLauncher. The power of the One S hardware makes GoLauncher's effects and visual style work fluidly and look great. It balances speed and customization VERY well.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been a fan of Go Launcher from the begining, on my old Desire. Just loaded to One S and cannot seem to get rid of the ICS 3 dot menu bar at the bottom of the screen.
Really annoying. Is there a option to hide this somewhere?
Thanks in antici.........pation.
Mark
Android_Mark said:
I've been a fan of Go Launcher from the begining, on my old Desire. Just loaded to One S and cannot seem to get rid of the ICS 3 dot menu bar at the bottom of the screen.
Really annoying. Is there a option to hide this somewhere?
Thanks in antici.........pation.
Mark
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, just take a look in the One S development section!
You can get rid of the 3-dot menu by using the mod "tweak machine" which you can find here:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1683552
Or take a look at the custom roms, if you want to improve the usability of your one S in general...
Nice thing I have to try it
Sent from my HTC One S using xda app-developers app
This is for all launchers...Well the most popular ones like GO/Apex and Nova..
My favorite theme for a launcher i have to admit
Sphere Theme -
Presenting the new theme Sphere
-1400 icons
Selected it in the theme manager of your favorite launcher.
Question!
Hi! I am using ssLauncher and I love it! I want to convert my zip theme into an .apk file. Do you know how to do it?
Thanks for the great post!
despeinada said:
Hi! I am using ssLauncher and I love it! I want to convert my zip theme into an .apk file. Do you know how to do it?
Thanks for the great post!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
god i have not used android since the start of the year...have you searched for apk tools but anyway hope the following link helps
https://www.google.co.uk/webhp?sour...espv=2&ie=UTF-8#q=converting zip files to apk
This app allows you to have as many touchable areas (triggers) on the screen as you want and each trigger allows you to open different sidebars depending on the touch gesture on it. Everything in this app is persobalisable.
Special features:
arbitrary number of apps, shortcuts, widgets or folders to a sidebar
arbitrary number of handles
many triggers to open a sidebar (slide up/down/left/right, click, double click, long press)
personalize colors, sizes, transparency, use icon packs and much more
Action Folder - clicking it directly opens the first app in the folder, swiping on it opens the folder
Action Sidebar - the trigger does not open a sidebar but directly start an app or a shortcut
Sidepages - page that shows your apps and allow you to fastly search them with the T9 predictive keyboard
Material Palette Colors - fastly select material colors
Quick Colors - fastly select colors that match your current wallpaper (material palette method to extract the main colors of your current wallpaper)
Supports resent apps and blacklists on all android versions
Planned features that are currently developed:
sidepage with direct widgets on it just like a real drawer and freely positionable apps, shortcuts, widgets and folders
integrate contacts and allow them to be search like apps on the all apps sidepages
...
Any feedback is appreciated and feature requests are welcome.
DEMO
Demo video will come the next days, that demonstrates all the main features with descriptions. In the meanwhile, here are the raw videos that shortly demonstrate the app:
Demo sidebars: https://www.dropbox.com/s/rypuei9ceghubtj/intro3-1.avi?dl=0
Demo sidepages: https://www.dropbox.com/s/jktqccf1ozcnbs6/intro3-2.avi?dl=0
Style demo:
https://www.dropbox.com/s/550klbvtlp8y80l/style-1.avi?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/qsnuqmhz8ty5epe/style-2.avi?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/y5wjr4bskxnyj78/style-3.avi?dl=0
LINK
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appindustry.everywherelauncher
Tried the app - good
I tried the app; very good. I am on a Samsung Galaxy Tab S, 10.5", running on a SlimLP Android 5.1.1. The store would not let me download the app, stating it was not "compatible" with my device. I downloaded the file to my phone, backed it up, and installed it unto my tablet. I seems to be working fine.
Nice app, great bunch features and configuration. Endless possibilities. This app deserves more attention.
See it in action.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPGLVbxa7_k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIJRpSqwxjk
Desired features
jaydee 77 said:
Nice app, great bunch features and configuration. Endless possibilities. This app deserves more attention.
See it in action.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPGLVbxa7_k
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIJRpSqwxjk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Excellent tool. Still thinking to get the pro but I suggest the following:
- Selection by sliding, without lifting the finger (Glovebox´s app style)
- Improve the floating widget because widget is not responding smoothly
Thanks.
I am really liking this so far and I plan on buying. Everyone should install this app and play with it for a few days, don't dismiss it too quickly it is very nice. Good job dev. Thanks
I installed the app yesterday and it is really great, congratulations on your app @prom85 :good:
I have some ideas to further improve the app, maybe you like the ideas, too:
1. Possibility to open sidebar/sidepage with a shortcut without having to use handle. A fast workaround would be allowing to set the width of a handle to 0dp.
2. Possibility to adjust the size of a sidebar/sidepage. I would like to have a sidepage with minimum size to see all my favorite apps on it. Therefore it would be great, if the sidepage would decrease its size if I decrease the number of rows/columns. A fast workaround would be increasing the maximum dp of possible padding in all directions to 1000(?).
3. I think I found a little bug: I use custom rom with navigation bar and I open sidebar/sidepage with a button on the navigation bar (via shortcut) and most of the time it works well. But sometimes not only the sidebar/sidepage opens but also your app opens in background of the sidebar/sidepage. The problem is, that I don't know why or when the functionality switches to "open both: app and sidebar/sidepage". Maybe you can have a look at it.
Last but not least I have a question: Is it right that I can use with the pro version icon packs AND change in addition the icons manually that don't look nice with the icon pack?
With kind regards
paludi06
This is a useful app with many options. It is progressively getting better.
Hello
I try to enable the dynamic permissions (read contacts and call phone) but I don't know how
Is it possible to inform me anyone how to do that?
Sapphyx Launcher The pixel launcher mod you haven't tried yet nor expected.
Sapphyx is based off a fork of the Android Oreo Launcher with a few cherry picked implementations of rootless pixel launcher i found useful and demanding and heavily modified for the uses i required of them thus leading to what I now call Sapphyx Launcher. This is a pixel mod that's heavily based on core features we see all around but developed originally from the heart. Their are no kangs here. How can you tell? Well, theirs a few stability issues, their is uniqueness, their are features you've never heard of and will enjoy.
FEATURES
-Based on Launcher3 8.1 r4
-Forked key features from Rootless Pixel Launcher (Shortcuts, Light/Dark engine, Icon Pack Support, Bottom Panel Icon Editing)
-Stripped of all Google Code to ensure the availability to everyone and secure your data of any data collection theories anyone has of them
-Context Pages 2.0 (Swipe to left Custom Pages, Original concept inspired by Blur Launcher by Luke Klinker)
-Bubbles 2.0 (Switch between android Dots or Badges for icon notification indicators and set custom tints of color)
-Pill widget returns!
-Backup and Restore data functionality
-User Profile registry for personal experience
-Homescreen Action Menu revamped from ADW Launcher from Gingerbread
-Change Adaptive Icon Shapes and Generic Background Colors or disable them
-A custom logarithm has been built to suggest Text Size, Padding and Grid Sizes for the app drawer and homescreen for all devices
-App Drawer has been completely rebuilt from the ground up. Supports Vertical and Horizontal interface, custom drag handlers, Column and Padding dimensions, App Suggestions, Search, and Color Options
-Homescreen Dock has been completely rebuilt. Supports a custom drawable that is mutated by the user to suggest an Android P background or classic Flat Background with custom tints and colors. The Dock also supports a custom search dock widget, widget support and the Swift Pill.
-SWIFT (Pill, Apps, Dash) The Swift Pill is an item located in the launcher dock to imitate the android p gesture experience and replaces the all apps button or carret indicator. Users can click, long click, swipe right and left for actions available. Swift Apps is a quick apps drawer and Swift Dash is a Custom Action panel.
-8 Different Folder styles with Smart Folder Gesture implementation
-Gestures by Sensey!
-Adaptive Color Engine. Pulls colors from the users current wallpaper and sets them inside a color scheme that may be available to certain launcher elements and views. Adaptive Primary has one color, Adaptive Secondary has 3 colors and Adaptive Accent has 4 colors to set. Users can also adjust the transparency level for that chosen color.
Use the Google Play Ratings properly as I Follow the Google User System. If you have a Problem or Personal Opinion, use the issue Report option in the launcher settings menu.
THE CODE
Overtime as I build a stronger community and build a respective trust with certain users and developers, I will invite you to the private repository that exist. This code is private to the Sapphyx Launcher project and it will stay with Sapphyx. I'm using this a learning project for myself and any developers who may get involved. Im not found of seeing all these launchers copying one another and building something unique and original is my type of game. I will compete with existing features but look at it from a different angle.
THE COMMUNITY
Join the Google Group!
Telegram Channel
GocalSD Website
DOWNLOADS
Google Play Link
XDA Labs Link
LICENSE KEYS
During the Beta, everything is free and open to explore! This will probably last a month or so to allow everyone a chance to check things out and explore but it's good to get locked in! Here are your options!
Premium License Key
-Unlocks all launcher customization and tweaks. You will also gain access to SwiftFeed Context Page Settings. This is the basic license that keeps you ensured you have everything you need to make the perfect homescreen adjustments.
Onyx License Key
-Unlocks all launcher customization, tweaks, and future implementations of Context Page development. As more pages become available, they will become more advanced and require the Onyx Key to unlock.
ADD-ONS
Drywall App
-Drywall is a wallpaper provider app i released this year. Its also open source! It provides a decent amount of wallpapers and utilities to properly set it for your screen.
Sapphyx Service Pack
-The Service Pack is an add-on for sapphyx launcher that will play a more important roll as I work on it alittle more. In the future, its roll will be to add more features to Sapphyx Launcher that would cause a user to no longer accept it as a Pixel Experience. I am currently working on the Service Pack to include more gestures, a developer backing program, security fixes, patches and more. It's completely optional and brings Firebase notification support to the launcher.
Below I talk more about the user registry and Context Pages. A full changelog can be viewed in the app and Il be building an html preview of it on my github soon.
Enjoy!
Context Pages
My replacement for the Google Now on left experience. This feature allows users to set pages that are available to them as their companion to their homescreen in Sapphyx Launcher. This was an idea based on Luke Klinkers Blur Launcher page concept but built totally different. Context Pages are loaded in an adapter in the launcher settings show you what is available to use, the license it needs to be accessed and if settings are available to it.
Swiftfeed: A powerful and customizable RSS feed with built in Google Assistive Search. A classic imitation to the Android 4.0 Experience Google Now. Loads up an rss feed (Not all feeds are currently supported), displays its contents. The header loads up the classic google now wallpapers and has a built in Google Search widget that will show realtime weather and information if you have the Beta Google Now installed. News items have swipe options for sharing and dismissing and clicking on the title will do an article search on Google Now. You can choose from an array of news articles I have provided or set your own feed. You can also change the bottom scrim color for a personal tint.
Calendar: A calendar...
Search: A basic search page with Native Google Search Widget
Swiftsnap: A selfie cam of sorts just for fun. Don't expect high quality pics from SwiftSnap. It was designed to be a selfie cam but at the same time, a trigger for photographers to get a quick pic of the world. It does consume alot of batter so be careful.
User Registry
The user registry was built to give Sapphyx Launcher a personal experience. You can set this information by accessing the launcher settings, pulling out the drawer and clicking the header and accessing the Account Settings. In here, it will ask for a profile header image, a profile avatar image, your name and a nickname. This information is used in certain elements in the launcher to give out a more personal vibe. I would like to eventually add a petite ai experience in the future so it can use this information to communicate with you as well. This information is not collected and stored in the launcher database. Your images are broken down into code and stored in the shared preferences. Kinda like getting fisted from Thanos.
Boom!
Beta Hotfix Update 7/1
Here's what has changed
-Added the ability to change the launcher settings mini drawer and full drawer size in app settings
-Added the ability to change the height and width of the dock searchbar
-General Maintenence to update checker in Changelog activity
-Removed the wrist twist concept gesture as it collided with the Tilt Gesture
-Fixed Tilt gesture to properly work and added a Show Workspace action to it
-Adjusted the padding to the Swift Pill (Still playing with location)
-Added a higher calculation multiplier to homescreen app title size (May be smaller after the update, you should change it)
-Fixed an oddball compilation bug that named Sapphyx Launcher Pixel Launcher
-Minor performance fixes in launcher workspace
-Added a proper on back press to dismiss Swift Panels
-Deleted and Removed some deprecated and unused Google Code from Stock Launcher 3 framework
-Rebuilt Pill/Date widget header for future tweaks and implementations
-Fixed a bug that suggested users they applied the Search context card when switching pages
-Added Backup and Restore Sapphyx user data functionality (A few more plans are in the making for this utility)
Now I want my users to not get used to the idea I push out updates this fast. It was a very hot n humid day and I had nothing more todo ?? but you should expect an update every week whether it's a quick fix suggested by a user to some major changes im working on.
Side Note: We noticed the Tilt gestures set an incorrect value so when this update installs, movement may return you to your homescreen so check the gesture settings!
Thank you for such active support!
Great launcher. Love the features in it
Good Launcher ?????
Working on the next beta update. Should roll out this weekend if my work schedule doesn't get any more busier but on the list so far, here's what's headed your way.
Theirs currently a bug in my math that takes the Swift Pill and Dock Searchbar and blows it up like a balloon animal on android 6 - 7.1 and draws it correctly on Android 8+ this was because I had completely forgotten about the fact of the new display size api in Oreo and up. This is being fixed to where the variables are completely manual now and you can adjust the padding, width and height of these elements. If they look awful on install or past the update, you'll be able to adjust them now.
The launcher settings will now display the changelog after each releases update to show the recent changes that have been implemented. Not many people care about the changes vs where to actually go see the changelog which is in the launcher updater activity.
The launcher settings persistent rate dialog has been revamped to a much more attractive window and the rate at which it ask for feedback has also been increased.
The text size modifiers have been slightly revamped to get better results for bigger screens, higher dp and tablet support.
Ive also refactored alot of my code that I forked from google and rootless pixel mod to hopefully fix a few problems we have on Pixel devices and essential phones. Made several adjustments for performance boost as well based on my results from the google console.
Im working to get a few new features down before I release this update so you guys have some new things to play with vs stability and performance.
A few screens of the next update.
This includes a new vertical drawer developed specifically for Android Go or low performance devices.
Ive also included an icon size variable thats pretty different compared to how other launchers have done it so we will see how it goes.
Can you add a app collection page just like Aviate Launcher had ? I just love that thing. Its so much better than having folders. Just look into it. If you can implement it, that would be great.
a.broken.star said:
Can you add a app collection page just like Aviate Launcher had ? I just love that thing. Its so much better than having folders. Just look into it. If you can implement it, that would be great.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Care to explain this feature? I'm looking for an alternative to folders actually
This afternoon il be releasing a new beta update on xda labs and Google Play, I'll notify when the update is ready.
Changes coming in this build
-After changes have been applied in the launcher settings, it will now listen on home button press. Before, only backing out would trigger applying the launcher settings.
-The persuasive rating dialog increment timer has been increased by 5 and now uses Luke Klinker Floating Window Tuturial interface. This window will appear asking if the vibes of the launcher have been positive, negative or if you'd like to issue a report. Positive Vibes sends you to the playstore for a Rating, Negative vibes readies up an email directly to me for discussion, issue reporter launches activity to send a report on github for me to track.
-Changelog will now load up its html after each version changes. This allows you to see the latest changes right away. I am currently working on a better window and the activity itself as a few things have been deprecated.
-Size settings have been implemented for Homescreen/Dock Icons, App Drawer Icons, variable fixes to text size, Swift Pill sizes, and Dock Searchbar sizes variables(Which will allow Android 6-7.1 users to enjoy the dock more). I will continue to work on these variable settings as needed.
-A rare FC caused by Swift Actions should be fixed.
-Compound Drawable padding has been added to app drawer settings.
-App Drawer configuration code and paginated swiping improved for better performance and reliability.
-New Go Vertical Drawer Type added for low end devices that uses an automated process to calculate columns and spacing properly needed for screen size and density.
And a few other background preparations for and fixes to boring to talk about.
Nx Biotic said:
Care to explain this feature? I'm looking for an alternative to folders actually
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its a separate page where apps appear collection wise.
To open an app from a folder we to through 3 steps, 1) find the folder 2) click on it 3) click on the app
But app collection page does that in 2 steps. 1) swipe left to go to app collection page 2) click on the app.
Pls see any video of aviate launcher. It will explain it better than i can in words or screen shots.
a.broken.star said:
Its a separate page where apps appear collection wise.
To open an app from a folder we to through 3 steps, 1) find the folder 2) click on it 3) click on the app
But app collection page does that in 2 steps. 1) swipe left to go to app collection page 2) click on the app.
Pls see any video of aviate launcher. It will explain it better than i can in words or screen shots.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I found a copy of aviate launcher apk and installed and took a look. This looks like something I would consider as a Context Page or a replacement in Swift Apps panel. Il definitely keep this in mind.
New 2.00.02 update is live on xda labs
Should be live in an hour or so on Google Play!
Edit: live on playstore
If you notice some weird or aweful looking views or launcher elements because of size changes, let me know. I'm working to improve my calculations based on OS specifics and destiny
I am really enjoying Sapphyx Launcher 2. I have one question and one potential bug:
Question: Can I get a link to a "how-to" page on using icon packs with this launcher?
Bug Potential: I am using MIUI 9.5 on a Redmi Note 5 Pro, and under "Notification Bubbles" in Settings, I can't turn on "Notification Indicators." When I switch on the system notification permission switch for Sapphyx, it crashes the settings app and resets the permission to the "off" position. Tried it dozens of times, reboots, resets, turned off MIUI Optimization, plus a myriad of other attempted fixes. It just keeps crashing the MIUI settings app.
PlaidRadish said:
I am really enjoying Sapphyx Launcher 2. I have one question and one potential bug:
Question: Can I get a link to a "how-to" page on using icon packs with this launcher?
Bug Potential: I am using MIUI 9.5 on a Redmi Note 5 Pro, and under "Notification Bubbles" in Settings, I can't turn on "Notification Indicators." When I switch on the system notification permission switch for Sapphyx, it crashes the settings app and resets the permission to the "off" position. Tried it dozens of times, reboots, resets, turned off MIUI Optimization, plus a myriad of other attempted fixes. It just keeps crashing the MIUI settings app.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Icon Packs: Being that your on MIUI, Icon Packs are different compared to system icon packs. Simply search icon packs on Google Play, once you find one you like, install it and select icon pack in general settings
I have a Mi 5 Pro myself. What I have discovered with Bubble Indicators is that once you enable them, you'll eed to restart your device to see the changes with MIUI or EMUI or any heavily skinned OS (Reason why I use Linage OS myself). The notification settings crashing is because that particular activity the launcher is looking for isn't available in MIUI framework so not much I can do their. If it automatically disabled it, it could be a permission thing in MIUI security
Nx Biotic said:
Icon Packs: Being that your on MIUI, Icon Packs are different compared to system icon packs. Simply search icon packs on Google Play, once you find one you like, install it and select icon pack in general settings
I have a Mi 5 Pro myself. What I have discovered with Bubble Indicators is that once you enable them, you'll eed to restart your device to see the changes with MIUI or EMUI or any heavily skinned OS (Reason why I use Linage OS myself). The notification settings crashing is because that particular activity the launcher is looking for isn't available in MIUI framework so not much I can do their. If it automatically disabled it, it could be a permission thing in MIUI security
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sorry, I'm new to MIUI. Love the phone, but I'm a LineageOS guy, too. Unfortunately, not every phone is bootloader unlocked or easy to force into submission of unlocked status.
I'm actually using Sapphyx Launcher 2 by Ryan Gocal - sounds like you are him?
Being a fan of Chromium OS and a passion for developing new and interesting things, I decided to build a launcher inspired by chromium os, based on Material Components.
GCA or GO Custom Android Launcher is a pixel design inspired launcher with core component features from chromium OS desktop. Its designed and built for Android Go but also offers new devices a fresh and new experience for your homescreen.
Supporting Android 5.x+, GCA offers a single screen launcher replacement app for android users who want a pixel lite experience. Alot of the offered features come from my other launcher, Sapphyx Launcher, and rebuilt to be faster, lighter and ultimately offer a better experience in a small package. It runs beautifully on Android Go, smooth on devices with Android 5 (Like the Kindle Fires) and offers a theme engine that's customizeable by the user.
GCA features are dependant on what Google Apps are installed that depend on an action, whether Google services is installed or not and specific apps that are installed (Action Dash for Dash System Shortcut)
Core Features
-A single screen setup (no grid, one widget).
-A customizeable App Drawer with multi-purpose search.
-The App Drawer features apps with system shortcuts and app shortcuts and allows users to blacklist apps.
-App Drawer supports a secondary "Work" tab to help organize apps in a better fassion.
-App Shortcuts generate a list of selectable app shortcuts in a vertical menu of the app popup.
-Recent Apps
-Easy to use launcher customization
-Pixel/Chromium desktop like Cosmetics
-Launcher uses my wallpaper app, Drywall, as default wallpaper provider. If its not installed, fallback on user selected.
-Notification Badges and Underlining. Clicking on the app will dismiss. Is not supported on Android Go unless activated by OEM.
-Adaptive Icons
-Icon Packs
Adaptive Icons
-GCA Launcher uses James Fenn's adaptive icon view library. The code itself was inspired by lawnchair's backport of adaptive icons for pre oreo devices. It pulls v26 icon assets for foregrounds and backgrounds and relayers them as an adaptive icon view which behave similar to pixel launchers adaptive icons. How you choose to use them will affect performance of the launcher and should be chosen dependant of how capable your device is. Users can select which shape of adaptive icon path they want to use. This will also apply itself to app actions, predictions and app drawer button.
There are 3 options of icons you may use for your drawer.
Pixel Adaptive - will try and generate adaptive icons based on the assets gathered by the icon and created by the system, this will slow down your app drawer depending on your hardware. (Not recommended for Android Go, Does not support icon packs)
Palette Adaptive - will disregard any assets available from the icon and simply scale the icon drawable as foreground and apply the dominant color of the icon for the background drawable (Faster than pixel adaptive, supports icon packs)
Normal Icons - normal default icon behavior and style
What's Not Working / WIP
-Icon Packs that generate their own icons like Icon Pack Studio may cause crashes, please don't use them. Icon Packs developed with BluePrint library are recommended.
-If external data usage permission is denied on first start, homescreen scrim will not be available or work correctly. Homescreen scrim will set to default white if using a live wallpaper.
-GCA is setup to change available features based on Android OS, if you notice something that may not be correct or crashes, let me know. This is your only paywall.
-Android 5.X support is limited but work in progress. Cosmetics and style need updated but it is functional. Please report back any inconveniences and crashes.
-Android 10 support has been added but we are monitoring performance and compatibility.
-Adaptive Shape Views and Adaptive Icon performance may vary on devices.
Changelog
-A detailed changelog can be found in the application settings. It is written in html so translation is your responsibility, html can be copied.
Donations
/ Pledges
-Yearly pledges have been implemented in the app. You are not obligated for any reason to purchase these but if you want regular updates, its recommended. Pledges keep the project alive and a few cups of coffee or a beer is sent my way (depending on time of day).
Downloads
Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.gocalsd.symphlyx
Xda Labs: https://labs.xda-developers.com/store/app/com.gocalsd.symphlyx
Telegram: Support channel can be found in the app settings
Bug Reports / Request
Please use the telegram channel or xda forums for bug reports and request. Do not use the Google Play ratings as a place for this stuff.
While making request, take into consideration how itl affect performance. We are keeping Android Go as our target OS. If itl consume memory or increase size massively , im not interested. We are aiming to keep customization minimal and the launcher simple but their could be different ways to approach currently implemented features, and id love to hear your ideas.
Android Go Nokia 1 performance demonstration
Nokia 1 and Essential Phone performance comparison
Quick Preview of Symphlyx (Latest build)
8/11/19
Il be uploading a new video soon comparing performance on a variety of devices using Symphlyx Official
Previously known as Symphlyx Launcher
Project Update Notice:
V2 is in development and I'm hoping for a beta release at the end of February 2020. The launcher has been rewritten from the ground up and includes a bunch of new features the community requested through pledges.
Sent from my HTC U Ultra using XDA Labs
I downloaded it and put it through the paces. I like how clean it is and I think you could be on to something. Will look forward to further development. Good job. ?
MadsMann said:
I downloaded it and put it through the paces. I like how clean it is and I think you could be on to something. Will look forward to further development. Good job. ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good to hear!
Sent from my HTC U Ultra using XDA Labs
Hoping to have a new update published tomorrow night. A preview of what's being worked on.
Sent from my HTC U Ultra using XDA Labs
New update today, now available on xda labs!
Changes
-Added experimental support for SDK 21 (Any devices with android 5.x are now able to install Symphlyx. Needs alot of work but its useable)
-Added Dismiss popup action for Android 5.x (Clicking outside of bounds on popup will not dismiss menu)
-Improved general performance and optimization for Android Go
-Added ability to dismiss notification underlining
-Added functional reminder widget
-Added semi function Heads Up widget (Previously known as generic At A Glance. Will behave differently on different OS's. Working on a weather provider atm but clicking on weather will ooen google weather. Heads up strings display differnet things on every quarter of the day.)
-Recent Apps now functional (Uses a position and click count logic. Recent apps hold 5 recent apps. The drawer monitors a click count up to 5. Every count is registered to a position and saves the action and icon on that click for the position in recent apps. If that action is already saved in a position, the click data is ignored but the count is consumed.)
-Added the ability to clear search results. Clicking the back button when the drawer is open will dismiss it but if search results are present, it will clear the search results focus first.
-Improved icon pack support and the chooser settings
-Increased homescreen scrim and All Apps button height position
-Fixed an issue where Sensey listener would be killed if the background process was killed by android os. This would make navigating to your apps or settings impossible.
And a few more chnages, check the changelog for a full list of changes.
Sent from my HTC U Ultra using XDA Labs
Currently working on a large update for Sapphyx Launcher atm so please leave some feedback on what could be improved, what you'd like to see, how the launcher performs on your device, etc while i take a break on this project to let it simmer.
Sent from my HTC U Ultra using XDA Labs
Currently finishing things up with Sapphyx Launcher development but a whole lot of changes are expected to be merged in with Symphlyx launcher in the coming future.
Sent from my HTC U Ultra using XDA Labs
It's been kinda quiet around here. I present a preview of the new popup menu we've been working on.
An update is expected to drop in June. Rebuilding alot of everything.
Let's talk about this new screenshot here giving some lite to Symphlyx Launcher's future.
Users will now have a dock. This dock will reflect recent app icons to the desktop from the drawer. These shortcuts have a popup menu similar to the drawer popup menu but limited to launcher actions. These do not have any sort of notification indicator.
Below the apps is a google searchbar. The searchbar also has 3 items. 2 predictive actions and am all apps button. The all apps button can be toggled while the predictive actions are only available to devices that support app shortcuts. Predictive actions behave very similar to Lawnchair 's logic behind predictive actions. When a user launches a shortcut class, its logged and saved to the prediction items. Only 2 at a time are logged.
Update Alpha 0.5 is now available on xda labs and pending on Google play.
Changes since march reveal
-Widget sliders are dead. The homescreen has been rebuilt to be cleaner, faster and better for gestures. Insteaf of Sliders, Symphkyx will rely on its stand alone heads up widget. Later on, users will be granted the ability to use their own widgets.
-Sensey gesture recognition has been removed due to click interferences we had during development. It has been replaced with our own gesture recognition system that will allow more control.
-The homescreen now offers a Shelf (dock) similar to Chromium. This shelf will later have some theme options available. Shelf will mirrow recwntly opened apps from the app drawer and add them in a 5 item dock. These shortcuts offer limited launcher actions and launcher shortcuts. Below these apps is a searchbar for google. It should open Google now depending on your os and firmware. On the end of the searchbar is an all apps button and a holder for recent actions. Recent actions can be enabled in the launcher settings and is only available to android 7.1+. Prediction actions will list 2 recenlty opened app shortcuts. These shortcuts will remain here untill a new app package is detected and/or replaced by the prediction system.
-The app drawer has had a few things done to it to improve performance and reliability. Colors are extracted in the data set instead of the adapter now and used for the popup menu and badge underlining. The drawer toolbar works the same way as before. Clicking on the google icons will open their respective activities but if something is in the searchbar, it will search that string in that environment. (ex: Google search news, Playstore search news)
-The popup menu still needs some tuning but now builds up on app shortcuts. If a shortcut is available, it will add it in a vertical list menu. This replaces the shortcut action we used to have to view shortcuts in a context menu. This menu is cleaner, faster and feels like a pixel popup. Actions are dependant of your os version and shortcuts are dependant on availability. Shortcuts and popups do not appear on recent apps in the app drawer.
-The settings menu has been cleaned up abit. This menu will only contain dynamic settings. (except icon packs) The menu now has an expansion activity. This menu will hold settings that rely on the launcher restarting or some system dependant.
-The about activity has been rebuilt with attribouter.
-The application is now built on AndroidX and Material Components. Very little 3rd party dependency is used now for a cleaner and reliable experience.
Recent Screenshots
Small update today. Tried correcting the positioning of popup menus on app item positions. We've noticed the popup menus would cut off on far right items and arrows not correctly inflating in the right sport or at all. I simply updated the popup library to correct these issues.
I might look into some sort of notification or alert count in the popup menu which would reset to 0 if cleared with the Clear Action.
A light n dark theme mode is being looked. This will be triggered by time or manually.
Nx Biotic said:
Small update today. Tried correcting the positioning of popup menus on app item positions. We've noticed the popup menus would cut off on far right items and arrows not correctly inflating in the right sport or at all. I simply updated the popup library to correct these issues.
I might look into some sort of notification or alert count in the popup menu which would reset to 0 if cleared with the Clear Action.
A light n dark theme mode is being looked. This will be triggered by time or manually.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Could be promising. Wouldn't let me get through the permissions set-up before crashing.
dpdsr65 said:
Could be promising. Wouldn't let me get through the permissions set-up before crashing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What android version are you using?
Nx Biotic said:
What android version are you using?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
8. 10
dpdsr65 said:
8. 10
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Interesting, il see what would of caused this to happen.
Well I was searching for a new launcher and xda labs landed me here. Screenshots look dope, but for me launcher has bugs,
1: not able to set homescreen widget even when given all permissions
2: app drawer is cut maybe due to aspect ratio ( mine is 19.5:9)
Well if these screens help, here they are.
I first introduced GCA Launcher 3 years ago as an inspirational project based on Chromium OS and over the years of development and continuous feedback from the userbase, GCA Launcher has evolved into a one of kind launcher experience that is now considered competitive against its own kind. GCA is not a traditional android grid homescreen launcher app but a single screen homescreen experience. We sacrifice the cluttered homescreen experience for a focused workspace where users can place apps that are apart of their daily routines while retaining the ability to access to important features like shortcuts, notifications, actions and personalization. The app drawer has been designed for a one handed experience while retaining the organization and filtering experience users need to search for apps that are important to them. Below, Il talk about sections of the launcher in more detail.
THE HOMESCREEN
The homescreen was designed for users who want the Pixel experience on their devices but also provide them with a simple tier experience that has no clutter, that is easy to understand, have full control and have access to some inhouse features that are unique to GCA. The Homescreen was designed for both the big screen and mobile scene. Users can pin as many apps to their Shelf as they want. You can do so by going into your app drawer, long pressing on an app to access its popup menu and select pin to shelf. This then creates a hotseat for that specific app sets a unique ID to that speicif hotseat so its protected against other possible replicas the user may create. This in turn opens a door in the future that will allow me to add Actions, Groups, and other possible actions I can allow users to add to the shelf. Users can choose between using GCA Launchers built in Quick Search Bar to bond to their shelf or choose a specific searchbar widget to bond to the shelf or hide it all together. To access the app drawer, users simply swipe up from the shelf to access the app list. Users are also able to use either GCA Launchers built in Widget that simply works as a search bar and displays the Google App and Chrome app shortcuts or use a specific widget of their choice. The homescreen also has a set of customizeable gestures the user can bond actions and shortcuts to.
LAUNCHER SHEETS
While developing GCA Launcher, I wanted something that spoke material design (Besides the Material You theming features baked in) that was unique to the launcher. The idea came about while browsing the Material Component website by google and Material Sheets caught my eye.
By default, GCA uses the Navigation Menu to display the launcher menu on the homescreen but I decided to take this a step further and tap into its full ability to display content. There are 2 types of sheets that function in GCA Launcher. App Sheets and Launcher Sheets. Launcher Sheets display content that can interact with the user while App Sheets display information regarding the target its referring to. For EX: After accessing the popup menu, selecting the hamburger menu in the quick action list in the popup will open te App Sheet of the selected application, this will display System Actions and Setting Information. Launchers Sheets display information like the Launcher Menu, Quick Search, Notifications and more to come. Launcher Sheets can be bonded to gestures to quickly access them and they dont interfere with your homescreen. Its very similar to the quick space in Action Launcher.
BADGES
GCA Launcher brings 4 different app badges to the table. Dots, Badge Counts, Underline and Dynamic.
Dots have been redesigned to behave abit differently than pixel launcher. As notification counts increase, the border of the Dot will get darker.
Underlines are just, well underlines...
Badge Counts will show the current count of active notifications for an app.
Dynamic Badges are something new. I wanted to create something similar to Nova Launcher but ofcourse from my own perspective. As notifications increase for an app, it monitors the notifications in the background and watches the notification icons used. The icon is than rendered as a badge and placed on the app.
ICON EDITING
I have not cut any corners when it comes to Icon Editing. From applying 2 different icon packs for your app drawer and your shelf, to editing labels and choosing specific icons from installed icons packs to crafting your own icon from an image in your gallery, their are all sorts of possibilities for Icon Management. GCA Launchers uses its own Adaptive Icon Rendering library to manipulate icons to any size, shape, dim and even creating material you themed icons on your Shelf.
LAUNCHER SETTTINGS
The launcher settings was the most interesting part about this project. I wanted a complete redesign. A complete do over. Something new and fresh. The Launcher settings was designed for both new users and existing users in mind. The Interface uses a Rail Navigation for the core categories most users are focused on while pressing on the navigation button will expand the Navigation Menu that allows the user to access even more settings for the launcher.
PRO FEATURES
GCA LAUNCHER IS NO LONGER AN ALL FREE LAUNCHER (As it used to be when it first launched). With the pandemic and everything else going on in my life, I had to make the choice to make GCA Launcher a profitable project. Unlike other premium launchers where the user buys a premium key and everything unlocks, GCA Launcher DOES NOT USE THIS APPROACH. Users can now buy individual pro features based on their needs and wants. I am working on ways to reward users with discounts and/or if you have purchased pledges in the past. Pledges are just donations and don't reward you with anything however I am working on getting pledged users discounts to reep benifits from. I am also working on discount days and special events to earn pro features. This is an entirely new direction for launchers, so yeah im a tad nervous about it but being the first launcher dev to approach this but im excited at the same time. Once you purchase a pro feature, it should unlock automatically from the launcher settings or just implement itself under the hood. If it doesnt seem to stick properly, reboot the launcher or make sure the pro feature has been purchased.
PRO FEATURES FOR NONE GOOGLE USERS
Some android devices around the world do not run off of google or just is not available and I understand this and am working very hard in the background to figure out a solution that will not be abused. I will have something for you in the future.
ANDROID GO VERSION
Coming soon!
Core Features
Launcher supports work profile apps and dual apps
Supports to indicate paused apps
Supports Action Dash system shortcut
Supoorts Sesame Searchbar in the Shelf
Launcher takes into consideration Full Screen Gestures and the Navigation Bar when needed to
Groups allow users to create organized folders of apps available in the Groups Sheet
Multi-tab search in the app drawer
While enabling Recent Apps and Groups in the app drawer, this will disable the section seeker view
Launcher Sheets are a new approach to menus and options for the launcher and apps.
The Shelf offers specific actions for apps that differ from the Drawer apps. One option in specific is the favorite action.
The Shelf and App Drawer apps will feature different system shortcuts and features in the app sheet. Long clicking on an app will make a popup menu appear, click the hamburger menu for a sheet menu
Apps can be edited in 2 options. The physical editing and the personal options. Personal options are in the launcher settings and allow options like icon sizes, label editing and shape shifting. Physical options can be found in the popup menu by clicking edit. This allows adaptive override, icon pack editing, scale and label editing.
The Shelf features a revised searchbar that can be toggled to the Top, Bottom or Removed completely. The searchbar features a shortcut to open the launcher menu, a global search feature, an assistant shortcut and has an option to store and track the usage of App Shortcuts to feature a recent actions holder.
Hide and Edit apps right from the popup menu
The App Drawer is built on a fastscroll functionality.
Recent Apps now uses Usage Stats Data. This gives Recent Apps a 100% reliable stat and not clutter up the app drawer when its not in use. The list will update on a regular basis.
The Shelf and App Drawer themes are based on a sheet style. They overlap each other creating some interesting twist to style.
App Shortcuts and Notifications for the current app appear in the popup menu
Active Notifications appear in app sheets showing users a preview of current notifications. Clicking on the notification will take you to that action. The notification sheet will display all your active notifications and snoozed notifications.
Users can manage a blacklist of notification badges
GCA Launcher does support Material Widgets in Android 12
Widgets can be resized by long clicking on them and a resize module will appear.
Material You theming powered by MonetCompat
Launcher settings features smart suggestions that appear on certain variables when available
Join the beta program to receive the newest build of GCA Launcher and to test new features before they officially release.
Links:
GCA Telegram Channel
GCA Telegram News Channel
Sign Up For Beta Program Web Android
GCA Launcher on Google Play
General Note:
This is a pre beta of which means parts of the launcher are not even functional yet. I did a pre beta to find errors i couldn't find myself and to get feedback on the progress we currently are at. If you see a page that is blank or something isn't functional, chances are it wasn't ready for the public yet. Please be patient with things.
Common Questions:
Why does GCA Launchers Adaptive icons behave so differently compared to the ones found in stock launchers?
-That is because the icons use a different mechanic and were made from scratch so everyone could enjoy adaptive icons and it not be exclusive to 7.1+ users. My icons can be modified from the icon to the shape override.
Can we get a launcher import option?
-No, not currently. Almost all launchers that exist use the base of Googles Launcher3 which adding an import option for them is easy. I would have to take the database, tear it apart, create a converter and place the data we need were it belongs. We are not there yet.
The System UI seems to behave differently from other apps.
-GCA Launcher has a theme engine similar to pixel launcher and trys to make the choice of a light or dark navbar or statusbar. Using Android10s dark mode may confuse things but eventually il have it all sorted out.
The launcher interface isn't what I expected. Shouldn't it behave like pixel launcher?
-No, it behaves like it should be. How it was designed.
Does it support quickswitch?
-It never will unless Google changes the api for the recents provider. I blame the lawnchair team of this common question as many users have assumed this is a premium feature now and should be supported by all launchers now which isn't the case.
Does this launcher support dark mode from android10?
-yes but we have some work todo yet
Why do things look weird in the launcher settings? Preference category is hard to read and matches the toolbar color.
-Try changing the color scheme in the style settings. This is the GCA theme engine at work.
Ratings:
If you post a rating for GCA Launcher coming from V1, more than likely i will dis regard it. V1 is being deprecated soon and all bugs and errors you will find in V1 on the playstore are being disregarded. V2 is a rewrite with new features and new bugs.
Bugs
Theming issues colliding with system
Some widgets dont' save initial setup data
Complex widgets are not currently supported
That's a ton of changes. Do you have any screenshots or screen recordings you can share?
MishaalRahman said:
That's a ton of changes. Do you have any screenshots or screen recordings you can share?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I can most definitely do that
Screenshots of V2
I updated the build earlier to fix something for Android 8 users and ended up screwing something up for Android 9 users so il be keeping tabs on everything as much as possible but I will not be able to do anything if no one says anything. Please provide feedback as much as possible. Thank you in advanced.
Those of you keeping me informed of crashes, thank you, thank you, thank you
Newest build fixes problems with android 9 and 10 crashing in specific windows of the launcher
I just installed this and have only played with it for a few minutes. A couple things I have noticed.
The status bar icons and time take on the same color as the wallpaper. I installed and ran it with a white background. The status bar icons were white, when I changed to a black background they changed to black as well.
I can't get the size of the icons to save. When I go to settings>theme and style>launcher icon I change the size from small to normal but when you click ok and go back into the setting it says small again.
I also would get where the phone would default back to the stock launcher.
Maybe I didn't play around with it enough but how do you set apps on the dock?
I will mess with it some more tomorrow and let you know if I find anything else.
Also I am on a Pixel 4 XL on March update. Not rooted or unlocked
hatdrc said:
I just installed this and have only played with it for a few minutes. A couple things I have noticed.
The status bar icons and time take on the same color as the wallpaper. I installed and ran it with a white background. The status bar icons were white, when I changed to a black background they changed to black as well.
I can't get the size of the icons to save. When I go to settings>theme and style>launcher icon I change the size from small to normal but when you click ok and go back into the setting it says small again.
I also would get where the phone would default back to the stock launcher.
Maybe I didn't play around with it enough but how do you set apps on the dock?
I will mess with it some more tomorrow and let you know if I find anything else.
Also I am on a Pixel 4 XL on March update. Not rooted or unlocked
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Shelf apps can be changed by long clicking on a Shelf favorite and their will be a Favorite option to select a different package. This option isn't available in the App Drawer apps so it might be easy to miss.
When changing the icon sizes, make sure your changing the icon size and bot just the text size. Both options are in one dialog.
Id your having a hard time switching out your default launcher, you can use my No'Me app i have listed above. It helps alot.
Nx Biotic said:
Newest build fixes problems with android 9 and 10 crashing in specific windows of the launcher
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The app in your GDrive is (always) updated ?
Going to test your launcher by curiosity.
Thx !
BreckZeBoulay said:
The app in your GDrive is (always) updated ?
Going to test your launcher by curiosity.
Thx !
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, I keep both Gdrive and Telegram beta channel updated. I will be publishing the beta build on Playstore when i feel its stable enough. Right now, we constantly keep running into something that prevents me from doing so.
Hi, I was wondering if you could add an import feature?
I take a lot of time to setup my whole homescreen and it would be amazing to have an import feature. Thanks
I want to import my nova launcher setup to this launcher.
surya467 said:
Hi, I was wondering if you could add an import feature?
I take a lot of time to setup my whole homescreen and it would be amazing to have an import feature. Thanks
I want to import my nova launcher setup to this launcher.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That won't happen because this launcher uses a different style and approach to the launcher scene. The most customization you will do in this launcher is color scheme and icon theming
Hi,
I was more curious and installed it in my android 8.0 with custom system UI colours (non rooted).
when I set as launcher, the system UI get restarted again and again. Finally, it ended up with Factory reset.
beautiful launcher ? works great on my old Nokia 8, on my Nova 5T not so much (cause Huawei) I'll watch the progress of this launcher from now on, thank you for this, Pledge doesn't work on the pre- beta
vpguru said:
Hi,
I was more curious and installed it in my android 8.0 with custom system UI colours (non rooted).
when I set as launcher, the system UI get restarted again and again. Finally, it ended up with Factory reset.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Im currently investigating a launcher theme issue. Its crashing devices randomly. Your not alone
PaulDnoOb said:
beautiful launcher ? works great on my old Nokia 8, on my Nova 5T not so much (cause Huawei) I'll watch the progress of this launcher from now on, thank you for this, Pledge doesn't work on the pre- beta
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Pledges should work. May depend on the google services version installed on your device. Thank you for your support.
Great launcher
Great launcher but it's a bit buggy for me on One UI. The header text is dark in the settings and also in app options when using dark mode and adaptive icons don't work properly for Samsung apps. The status bar also is dark on home screen and blends in with the wallpaper so it's hard to read. Also when you open the app drawer the shelf doesn't completely hide the app icons (the top portion is still visible). I don't know if that's by design but it looks weird. Search doesn't work (probably because I don't have the Google app installed but if that's the case I wish there was an option to disable it). Creating a widget causes the launcher to freeze, and it only recovers when I clear data and force stop. When you press and hold an icon, even if the side menu shows up partially, if you leave pressing the app, the app will launch. You have to wait for the side menu to completely open. That's not much of an issue once you get used it's behavior. It's an early build so the bugs are expected but I thought I will report them anyways.
ununununun said:
Great launcher but it's a bit buggy for me on One UI. The header text is dark in the settings and also in app options when using dark mode and adaptive icons don't work properly for Samsung apps. The status bar also is dark on home screen and blends in with the wallpaper so it's hard to read. Also when you open the app drawer the shelf doesn't completely hide the app icons (the top portion is still visible). I don't know if that's by design but it looks weird. Search doesn't work (probably because I don't have the Google app installed but if that's the case I wish there was an option to disable it). Creating a widget causes the launcher to freeze, and it only recovers when I clear data and force stop. When you press and hold an icon, even if the side menu shows up partially, if you leave pressing the app, the app will launch. You have to wait for the side menu to completely open. That's not much of an issue once you get used it's behavior. It's an early build so the bugs are expected but I thought I will report them anyways.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you for your feedback