In a recent development within the tech industry, Nova Launcher, a well-regarded Android launcher app, has faced significant changes following layoffs at its parent company, Branch. The majority of the workforce has been let go, leaving only the app’s founder, Kevin Barry, as the sole full-time developer.
Current Status of Nova Launcher
Kevin Barry took to social media to address the situation, reassuring users and stakeholders about the future of Nova Launcher. He emphasized that despite the layoffs, Nova and Branch will continue their collaboration, with Barry at the helm of the app’s direction and development.
In his message, Barry expressed gratitude towards his former colleagues, acknowledging their contributions and the impact of the layoffs on the team. He stated, “This week Branch parted ways with some employees including people involved with Nova. We recognise this decision is a blow to individuals who have done great work at Nova and Branch and will do great work in the future. We thank them for all their hard work and we wish them the best.”
Barry also sought to clarify any confusion surrounding the Nova team structure. He noted that for many years, he was the sole member of the original Nova team, later adding Cliff for customer support and bringing on Rob for development work. He reassured users that he remains the lead and primary contributor to Nova Launcher, a role he intends to maintain moving forward.
Nova Launcher has established itself as a favorite among Android users, offering a wealth of customization options that extend beyond the default launcher capabilities. Its robust feature set and user-friendly interface have cultivated a loyal user base, ensuring that even amidst organizational changes, the app’s legacy continues to thrive.
