Nova Launcher, a highly customizable Android launcher, continues to maintain a strong user base despite recent changes in ownership and the introduction of advertisements, according to recent polls conducted by Android Authority. The launcher, which was acquired by Instabridge Sweden in January, has sparked debate among users regarding its future direction.
The polls reveal that 63.2% of respondents utilize Nova Launcher in some capacity, either as their primary launcher or intermittently alongside others. A significant 35.8% of these users express unwavering commitment to the app, with no immediate plans to switch. However, 22% indicate growing concern over recent developments, likely stemming from the implementation of ads in the free version and the discovery of fresh trackers within the application.
The change in ownership from Branch to Instabridge Sweden was first noted by users in the Nova Launcher subreddit, as reported by heise online. Instabridge also owns other ad-supported applications, including Deego, a photo backup app, and operates a Wi-Fi hotspot map and eSIM service.
Further analysis of the app’s code revealed the integration of Google AdMob and Facebook Ads SDKs into both the free and paid “Prime” versions of Nova Launcher. Exodus Privacy Trackers data shows an increase in the number of trackers from two with 30 permissions in version 8.1.6 to six trackers and 36 permissions in version 8.2.4. This increase in tracking capabilities has raised privacy concerns among some users, particularly given the launcher’s central role in smartphone interaction.
A second Android Authority poll asked users whether Nova Launcher remains the best Android launcher available. Nearly 60% affirmed its continued excellence, with 30.5% maintaining that Nova is and remains the top option. However, 28.3% are questioning this status due to the recent development issues. Approximately 23.8% believe that superior alternatives now exist, although a small minority (5.4%) never considered Nova the best launcher.
The latest beta version of Nova Launcher, 8.1.1, released in June 2024, included fixes for transparency issues with MediaCards and edge swipe functionality, as well as addressing force closes. A more substantial update, 8.1.0, introduced revamped Cards with customizable app and widget cards, a preview of a new feed called Nova Now, and Smart Folders for intelligent app organization. These updates, available through the Google Play beta program or direct APK download, demonstrate ongoing development efforts despite the ownership change.
As of January 26, 2026, Reddit users in the r/NovaLauncher subreddit were discussing the timing of tracker additions, noting that many were implemented before the acquisition by Branch in 2022.
Instabridge Sweden has not yet issued an official announcement regarding the acquisition or the changes implemented in Nova Launcher.
