Android is known for being a tremendously customizable operating system, but there is a fundamental element that, although it goes unnoticed by many, completely determines the user experience on your mobile: the launcher, better known as launcherThroughout this article, we'll take a detailed look at what a launcher is on Android, how it works, what it's used for, the most popular options, details about its installation and security, and why choosing one can radically change the way you use your phone.
You'd be surprised to know how much a simple launcher change can completely transform the appearance, usability and efficiency on your phone. If you've never thought about what your device's launcher actually is, here you'll discover how it works, what types exist, and the details you should know before installing one that suits you and your daily life.
What is a launcher on Android?
El launcher, whose term in Spanish would be "launcher", is the main application responsible for the home interface and app management on your Android phone. Every time you unlock your device and see the icons, widgets, wallpapers, and menus appear, you're actually using the installed launcher, which can be the one provided by the manufacturer or a custom one you install yourself.
Simply put, the launcher is the visual "command center" of your phone: The first and last thing you see when using AndroidFrom there, you can access other apps, open the app drawer, customize icons and widgets, rearrange your screens, and more.
Each brand usually integrates its own launcher to strengthen its visual and functional identity, but Android allows you to easily replace it by options developed by third parties, making launchers the heart of system customization.
What is a launcher for on Android?
A launcher on Android It is not only responsible for opening applicationsIts main function is to serve as a bridge between the user and the set of installed apps, but it also Manages the home screen, quick access to applications, widgets, and the overall appearance of the system.
Many users they change the launcher to adjust the aesthetics of your device to your liking, but there are other compelling reasons: improve performance, access advanced features, change the organization of menus, or even simulate the appearance of other systems such as iOS or Windows.
Some launchers stand out for:
- Allow almost unlimited customization of the desktop, icons, and layout.
- Incorporate exclusive functions such as customizable gestures, themes, support for icon packs, or integration with news and smart assistants.
- Performance optimization, making older phones run more smoothly.
- Change the visual experience for those seeking simplicity or minimalism.
The choice of launcher can improve the comfort, speed and satisfaction when interacting with your mobile, adapting it completely to your preferences.
Main elements of a launcher: what can be customized?
To understand the importance of launchers, you need to know the key elements that any launcher on Android manages:
Start screen or desktop
This is the main space where you place shortcuts and widgetsIt's similar to a computer desktop and is usually divided into several pages that you can scroll through. Here you decide which apps you want to have closest at hand and what information (clocks, weather, notes, etc.) you want to see at a glance.
Some launchers allow you to define the number of screens, icon layout, grid size, or even add transition effects between them.
App drawer
The "drawer" is the complete list of applications installed on your device, usually accessible via a button or gesture on the home screen. Some launchers opt to eliminate this drawer and display all apps on the desktop, similar to the iOS approach.
Through the drawer, you can search for apps, sort them, categorize them, or access a vertical or horizontal list based on your launcher preferences. In most apps, you can drag an icon directly to the desktop or create folders from there.
Dock or bottom bar
The dock is that fixed strip at the bottom of the desktop where the frequently used applications are usually located: browser, phone, messages, camera... Some launchers allow you to modify the number of icons, add extra pages or even incorporate quick gestures to access other functions.
Icons and icon packs
One of the favorite options for customization lovers: change the style, shape, or size of icons via downloadable packages from Google Play. The best launchers usually support this option and even allow you to adjust the shape of the icons to achieve a uniform aesthetic.
Widgets and search bar
Widgets are small applications embedded in the desktop that display useful information or allow direct interaction (clocks, calendar, weather, music controls, etc.). Widget support is essential in any complete launcher.
Many launchers add a customizable search bar, with integration with Google or even other search engines or assistants.
Types of launchers on Android
On Android, there are different types of launchers, adapted to all types of users and needs:
- Pre-installed launchers: These are the launchers that each manufacturer includes, such as One UI for Samsung, HyperOS for Xiaomi, Funtouch for Vivo… They define the phone's visual personality and usually include features exclusive to each brand. Although they more than fulfill their purpose, they are often limited in terms of customization and sometimes include unwanted apps or ads.
- Third-party launchers: These are options developed by companies or individuals and available on Google Play, such as Nova Launcher, Action Launcher, or Microsoft Launcher. They usually offer much more advanced customization and allow you to change almost any aspect of the interface.
- Minimalist or themed launchers: Designed for those seeking simplicity, agility, or the ability to simulate the experience of other operating systems. Examples of this would be Niagara Launcher (minimalist), iOS Launcher (simulates the iPhone), or launchers that mimic the Windows Phone interface.
Advantages of changing the default launcher
Deciding to install and use a launcher other than the one that comes with your phone has numerous advantages:
- Complete customization of appearance and behavior from the home screen, app drawer, icons, themes, and fonts.
- Access to advanced features such as gestures, automations, integration with smart assistants or quick search.
- You can make your phone look like another operating system or adapt it to your personal tastes, without having to root the device or make complex changes.
- Increased productivity through quick shortcuts, optimized organization and placement of key widgets.
Security considerations when installing launchers
Do not forget that when you install a launcher you are also given certain advanced permissions. For this reason, it is vital to take precautions:
- Always download from Google Play or reliable sources, reviewing ratings and opinions from other users.
- Read carefully the permissions requested by the launcher: A trusted one should only require basic access, never sensitive data like messages, camera or microphone without justification.
- Keep the launcher updated, as popular apps frequently release security patches and improvements.
- Avoid unknown launchers that promise miraculous features or those with low ratings and few users; they may be hiding malware.
How do I install and change a launcher on Android?
One of the advantages of Android is how easy it is to install and change launchers:
- Download the desired launcher from Google Play, like any other app.
- When you first open it, it will usually guide you through a brief initial setup.
- When you press the Home button, Android will ask you which launcher you want to use. Choose the new launcher and select "Always" if you want it to remain the default.
- If at any time you want to revert the change or try other installed launchers, you can do so from Settings > Default Apps > Startup App and choose the one you prefer.
You can change launchers as often as you like, and have several installed at the same time without affecting the overall performance of your phone.
What to consider when choosing a good launcher?
The variety of launchers is overwhelming, so when deciding which one to install, keep the following aspects in mind:
- Widget compatibility: Essential to take advantage of the personalized home screen.
- Support for icon packsIf you like to play with visual style, look for a compatible launcher.
- Custom gestures: Gestures allow you to quickly open apps, notifications, or actions.
- Customizing the Dock and Search Bar: Some apps allow you to completely modify the bottom and search bar.
- Dark themes and modes: To adapt the design to your preferences and the time of day.
- Performance and resource consumptionIf your phone is a few years old, choose a lightweight, well-optimized launcher.
The most popular and recommended launchers for Android
There are hundreds of launchers available, but these are the most notable for functionality, reliability, and number of users:
Nova Launcher
Considered as the benchmark in customizationNova Launcher is ideal for those looking for complete control over every detail. Its free version is very complete, but if you want access to all the gestures and advanced features, you can purchase Nova Launcher Prime.
It allows you to thoroughly modify icons, grids, animations, widgets, gestures... and its performance is impeccable.
Action Launcher
Very similar to Nova, although with a more innovative touch. It includes unique features such as shutters, which allows you to deploy widgets from the icons themselves, and is ideal for those looking for a launcher with many options, ease of use, and frequent updates.
lawnchair
Inspired by the "pure Android" experience of the Pixel, Lawnchair adds customization improvements and support for icon packs, themes, and Google Feed, while maintaining a clean, modern look.
Microsoft Launcher
Microsoft's bet for Android mobiles stands out for its integration with the Microsoft ecosystem, task management, and custom widgets. It also includes a news feed and useful gestures. It's ideal for those who use Microsoft services (Outlook, OneDrive, etc.) and want to keep everything connected.
Smart Launcher
Especially recommended for those looking for automatic organization: automatically categorizes your apps and has a particularly responsive interface. Its design is different from most others, allowing for a clear separation of apps, widgets, and news.
POCO Launcher
Born from Xiaomi's POCO brand, this launcher is a combination of simplicity and efficiency. It features quick icon search by color, efficient app drawer management, and a very clean design.
Niagara Launcher
For lovers of minimalism: all applications appear in a single vertical list, prioritizing speed and one-handed accessibility. It's perfect for those looking for an ultra-light experience focused only on the essentials. Share the information and more people will know about the topic..
