The Future of Nova Launcher | Will It Survive After Mass Layoffs?
How will the future of Nova launcher be affected by the layoff?
Nova Launcher is a third-party app that acts as a home screen launcher, which opens up customization options for users that they might not have with the device's default home screen. This includes things like adjusting grid sizes, choosing widget mode, and getting app drawers. Data analytics firm Branch Metrics acquired Nova Launcher in 2022, allowing Nova to gain deep insights into how users use the app (including Nova Launcher).
When the layoffs were shared on social media by veteran Nova Launcher leaders like Rob Wainwright and Cliff Wade, the future of the app was in question now that development would become a one-man operation, however former employees reassured fans that there was no reason to panic and that Barry would continue his good work.
The future of Nova Launcher with only one developer
In a brief statement, Barry acknowledges the loss of his co-workers and wishes them well in their future endeavors. Barry also takes the opportunity to clarify what’s going on with development, explaining that for many years the Nova team consisted of just him, while Barry, Wainwright, and Wade have become the core of the team. Barry reiterates that he “has always been the leader and main contributor to Nova Launcher and that has not changed.” Barry goes on to state that he “will continue to control the direction and development of Nova Launcher.”
The statement appears to be an attempt to ease fans' concerns about reduced support. Nova is still expected to release the 8.1 patch it has been working on, but it will be less extensive than in the past. The question remains as to exactly how the layoffs will impact future development.