Nova Launcher Is Gone: Help Make It Open Source 🚀

The loss of a legend...

Change.Org Link:
https://www.change.org/p/make-nova-launcher-open-source-let-the-community-continue-its-development

Join this channel to get access to perks:
https://bit.ly/Join9to5Google

Love podcasts? Try Pixelated: A 9to5Google Podcast - https://pca.st/nj4u

Subscribe ► https://bit.ly/9to5G | Read full article ► https://9to5google.com/2025/09/08/nova-launcher-shutting-down/

Nova Launcher’s founder and sole developer has left:
https://www.theverge.com/news/773937/nova-launcher-founder-left-kevin-barry-branch-open-source-android

FTC: We use income-earning auto-affiliate links: https://9to5mac.com/about/#affiliate

Want to sponsor the next 9to5Google video? Get in touch: ads@9to5mac.com

## Follow us
https://www.instagram.com/9to5google/
https://twitter.com/9to5Google/
https://facebook.com/9to5Google/
Damien: https://www.threads.net/@damienwildeyt
Jordan: https://twitter.com/JordanInTheKnow

🎥 Other channels 🎥
https://youtube.com/9to5Mac/
https://youtube.com/electrekco/
https://youtube.com/9to5Toys/
https://youtube.com/dronedj/

Damien's favorite gear:
- Panasonic Lumix S5 II X: https://amzn.to/3Vqce8E
- Panasonic 85mm f1.8: https://amzn.to/3rkwHdQ
- Sigma 28-70mm f2.8: https://amzn.to/4ahsoW2
- Godox SL-60W: https://amzn.to/3exGWGA
- RODE NTG-3: https://amzn.to/3iidwNu

Jordan's favorite gear:
- Canon R8: https://amzn.to/3URdIIN
- Canon RF 50mm F1.8: https://amzn.to/3UGwIti
- Audio-Technica AT2020 USB Microphone: https://amzn.to/3SIO6ej
- MacBook Pro 14-inch: https://amzn.to/3I6ZDPA
- Godox SL-60W: https://amzn.to/3wnmUu4
- NEEWER 72 Inch Tripod: https://amzn.to/49FZqP7

Timestamps
00:00 – Nova Launcher Shutdown Announcement
00:43 – Significance in Android History
01:25 – Nova Launcher's Legacy & Features
01:52 – Acquisition by Branch
02:32 – Layoffs & Kevin Barry Left Alone
02:54 – Official End of Development
03:13 – Why Nova Was Important
04:38 – Personal Impact & Android Customization
05:18 – Culture & Community Around Nova
05:48 – Branch’s Lack of Interest & Future Uncertainty
06:06 – Community Push for Open Sourcing
06:52 – Reflections on Corporate Acquisitions
07:09 – Final Thoughts & Call for Memories