Google is reportedly discontinuing its Google Now Launcher app. The app is essentially an Android layout format that presents all your apps in a stock-Android fashion. While a handful of manufacturers use vanilla Android version, most third-party manufacturers including HTC, Sony, and Samsung use a custom Android skin to differentiate the experience. According to a leaked email, Google is alerting Google Mobile Services (GSM) partners about removing the Google Now Launcher from the Play Store in the coming weeks.
Additionally, it is to be noted that existing users will continue to receive support but new downloads will not be available. While it will be still updated via the Google app, the listing will go away by the end of the first quarter of this year. So this leaves users with the only other launcher app by Google- Pixel Launcher. As the name suggests, the Pixel Launcher is the home screen experience for the Pixel and Pixel XL phones by Google. While the Pixel Launcher is listed on Google Play Store, it is not compatible with all the phones except Pixel phones. Users can turn to third party launchers like Nova and Aviate.
Written with input from BGR
