5 Forgotten Android Launchers I Wish Would Make a Comeback

The landscape of Android launchers is more vibrant than it has been in years. While apps like Nova Launcher may not hold their former status, a variety of alternatives catering to different preferences and requirements are now available.

Consider options like Octopi Launcher for its smooth experience across devices, Kvaesitso focused on search functionality, Niagara Launcher for a minimalist design, and Lawnchair for an open-source alternative reminiscent of the Pixel Launcher. This is merely the tip of the iceberg in a diverse market.

Reflecting on the current offerings brings to mind the innovative launchers that set the stage for today’s apps—many of which are fondly remembered. Here are several notable Android launchers from the past that I wish would make a comeback.

Though Nokia struggled in the smartphone market during the mid-2010s, it continued to innovate in software. The release of the Android-based N1 tablet introduced the unique Z Launcher, a significant move into contemporary user interface design.

A standout feature of Z Launcher was its dynamic arrangement of home screen icons, prioritizing those most frequently used by the user, contrasting with the static layouts typical of Android defaults.

Additionally, Z Launcher was equipped with a scribble search functionality. Users could draw a letter on the screen, and the launcher would respond with relevant apps, contacts, and shortcuts associated with that letter. This creative use of screen space eliminated the need for a traditional search bar.

Sadly, shortly after its release, Z Launcher was discontinued by Nokia after its acquisition by Microsoft, leaving many to ponder its potential impact.

Interestingly, the ideas behind Z Launcher have been echoed in modern development, with alternatives like ReZ Launcher adopting similar concepts.

During a period when Nova Launcher was redefining capabilities, Evie Launcher found its niche as a balanced option between simplicity and feature-richness.

While lacking the home screen innovation of Z Launcher, Evie’s straightforward UI offered a fluid and efficient user experience. Users could enjoy its capabilities out-of-the-box or customize it to suit their preferences.

The reasons for Evie Launcher’s discontinuation remain unclear, but it was removed from app stores in the early 2020s. Despite not being groundbreaking, its absence is felt among users looking for something familiar.

2014 was a pivotal year for Android launchers, marked by innovative contenders like Aviate, which garnered significant attention with its smart user interface that adapted to various contexts, including location and time.

Aviate’s ability to categorize apps based on user activity was particularly beneficial, simplifying the experience for those with extensive app collections. While it saw support post-acquisition by Yahoo, it ultimately fell out of favor and was discontinued after four years.

Is Apex Launcher still breathing? It exists in a limbo state—it’s unavailable on app stores but can be found through alternative means. Once a favorite, it is now a shadow of its former self according to many users.

Similar to Evie, Apex offered a clean layout, an app drawer, and widget support, making it a quick and user-friendly choice. However, following the release of version 4.0, complaints about bugs and intrusive ads began to surface, prompting the creation of a “Classic” version which has also since fallen victim to the app’s decline.

While still downloadable, Apex’s peak days are behind it.

Although ADW Launcher 2 is technically still available on app stores, it’s worth noting that it hasn’t been updated since late 2018. This makes it the only entry on this list still accessible but lacking proper support for modern devices.

ADW is a classic launcher, evoking nostalgia with a retro interface and customizable themes. It features a unique system for saving and sharing home screen layouts, along with a widget editor, although it has fallen behind in terms of support.

Despite still being on app stores years after its last update, ADW Launcher 2 can be difficult to find on modern devices. Could it be time for a new version with updated support?

These five Android launchers have left a significant mark on the app landscape, each bringing something different to the table.

Is there an abandoned Android launcher you wish would return? Share your thoughts below.