In July 2022, mobile app metrics firm Branch acquired Nova Launcher, a popular Android app, prompting reassurances from Nova’s founder, Kevin Barry, that the acquisition would not disrupt the app’s functionality.
Branch, known for helping businesses track app-related links, saw Nova’s Sesame Search tool, which facilitates deep linking within apps, as a valuable addition. Barry, who had received numerous acquisition offers over the years, chose Branch because they promised to maintain Nova’s accessibility, expand its team, and largely leave the app’s development unchanged.
However, two years after the acquisition, Branch’s commitment to Nova appears to have waned. Reports surfaced that the Nova Launcher team, which once included around a dozen people, has been reduced to just Barry himself following extensive layoffs at Branch.
This reduction in staff has left Barry with limited resources, forcing him to scale back planned updates for Nova. The layoffs are part of a broader cut affecting more than 100 Branch employees, raising concerns about the future of Nova Launcher.
Barry remains committed to working on Nova but acknowledges the challenges posed by the reduced team. The lack of support staff could lead to strained customer service and marketing efforts, potentially impacting the app’s user experience.
Despite these setbacks, Barry has indicated his intention to continue developing Nova Launcher, albeit with a narrower focus given the reduced resources.
Nova Launcher has long been a beloved tool for Android users, allowing them to customize their home screens and app layouts extensively. It offered features like customizable icon grids and the ability to hide unwanted apps, making it a go-to option for those looking to escape restrictive OEM software.
The app was frequently recommended in reviews, including by Ars Technica, for its flexibility and user-friendly design, particularly in cases where default Android launchers fell short.
Although Nova Launcher is not defunct, its future appears uncertain. The app is unlikely to see significant new developments or bold feature launches in its current state. Despite the challenges, users and reviewers alike hope that Barry will continue to support Nova Launcher as long as possible, preserving it as a valuable tool for Android customization.
