Clarifying the Future of Nova Launcher
In a recent development that has stirred the tech community, Kevin Barry, the lead developer of Nova Launcher, addressed the recent layoffs at Branch Metrics, the parent company of the popular home screen customization app. The layoffs, which affected over 100 employees, left Barry as the sole remaining member of the Nova team.
In his statement, Barry expressed his heartfelt sentiments regarding the departure of his colleagues, Rob Wainwright and Cliff Wade, wishing them success in their future endeavors. He took this opportunity to clarify the structure of the Nova development team, emphasizing that he has always been the primary contributor to the project. While Wainwright and Wade were integral to the team, Barry underscored that he has consistently led the direction and development of Nova Launcher.
For those unfamiliar with Nova Launcher, it serves as a third-party home screen launcher that enhances user experience by offering extensive customization options beyond what is typically available in stock home screens. Users can modify grid sizes, arrange widgets, and manage app drawers, making it a favorite among Android enthusiasts. Since its acquisition by Branch Metrics in 2022, Nova Launcher has benefited from insights into user behavior, further refining its offerings.
Despite concerns raised by the community regarding the app’s future, Barry reassured fans that there is no cause for alarm. He affirmed his commitment to continuing the development of Nova Launcher, stating that the upcoming 8.1 patch is still in the works, albeit with a reduced scope compared to previous updates. As the sole developer, Barry’s focus remains on maintaining the quality and direction of the app, ensuring that it continues to meet the needs of its dedicated user base.
As the situation unfolds, the tech community watches closely, eager to see how this transition will shape the future of Nova Launcher and its ongoing development under Barry’s stewardship.