Nova Launcher Development Ends as Founder Kevin Barry Exits, Leaving Future Uncertain

Nova Launcher, one of the most popular Android launchers with over 50 million users, is facing the end. Founder Kevin Barry left the project after taking over by branch analytics and thus ended the development.

The end of an era for Android users

The founder and original developer of Nova Launcher, Kevin Barry, officially separated from the project. This step marks the end of an era for one of the most famous Android apps and questions the future of the most popular alternative launcher. With over 50 million users, Nova Launcher is considered the leading custom-launcher for Android and, due to enormous adaptation options, was the first choice for Android enthusiasts for years.

Since its continuous development from 2011, Nova Launcher has established itself as a highly polished and resource-saving alternative to the standard launchers of the device manufacturers. The launcher was famous for its speed, literally endless adaptation options and regular updates. These properties also made him a particularly good choice for older devices that could have difficulties with modern surfaces.

Like Kevin Barry in one Blog post announced (via Android Authority) In recent months, he had intensively worked on Nova Launcher’s open source publication. This extensive work included the adjustment of the code base, checking licenses, removing or replacing proprietary codes and coordination with the legal department to ensure proper publication. However, Branch Analytics ultimately asked him to stop the development and its open source efforts.

Takeover brought problems

The problems began in 2022 when the analysis company Nova took over. At that time, the company assured that they would not interfere in Nova’s development and Kevin Barry and his team would keep complete control. In a Reddit-AAM, the then branch CEO Alex Austin also revealed that they would publish Nova Launchers code as an open source and pass it on to the community if Kevin should ever leave the company.

However, these promises turned out to be hollow. In 2024, branch released over a hundred members of the Nova Launcher development team and left only one member: the original developer and founder of the launcher, Kevin Barry. His statement revealed a particularly difficult trip – last year he was the only developer of the project. The stable version of Nova has not received an update since May 2024.

Uncertain future without updates

This development means the practical end of Nova Launcher, as millions of users know and appreciate it. While the app continues to work on installed devices, it is unlikely that it will receive new functions or updates. Since Google regularly publishes new versions of Android, the launcher could finally develop compatibility problems and no longer work properly. The community, which Nova had supported for over a decade, is understandably disappointed and angry.