Nova Launcher (Prime)
There are a number of launcher applications that let users override the standard look and feel that comes with the phone's out-of-box experience, but Nova Launcher Prime ($4.00) is one of my favorites. Don't like the preset shortcuts across the bottom of your handset? Not a fan of the app drawer setup? You can change all that.
There are a number of launcher applications that let users override the standard look and feel that comes with the phone's out-of-box experience, but Nova Launcher Prime ($4.00) is one of my favorites. Don't like the preset shortcuts across the bottom of your handset? Not a fan of the app drawer setup? You can change all that.
In a nutshell, Nova Launcher alters the way your phone behaves when tapping the Home button. Specifically, you can define how many panels you have, the number of icons that fit on the home screen, scrolling effects, and much more.
Among Nova Launcher Prime's options is selecting the grid size (number of rows and columns), placing a persistent Google Search bar, and tweaking margins. I love using the launcher's revolving door effect. It looks much cooler than a simple slide. Additionally, users can opt to remove icon labels, allow for widgets to overlap, and lock the desktop in place.
I also appreciate the way I can sort my app drawer, hide unused titles, and organize content into tabs. Other minor touches include infinite scrolling panels, custom grouping, menu transparency, and transitions. Suffice it to say, I'm constantly backing up and restoring fun layouts all the time.
A particularly fun, and easy, way to spice things up is to replace the icons representing apps and games. There are innumerable icon packs or themes that one can download to adjust the overall aesthetics. Some of the more popular ones I've encountered along the way are Tersus, Snack Pack, and MIUI 5. Again, hit up some forums or search Google Play and you'll find some rather inspiring stuff.
Nova Launcher Prime isn't the only option for those looking to customize the home screen; the free version is a great way to take advantage of most options and settings. At nearly 5 million installs, the free Nova Launcher is a popular and feature-rich home screen launcher. Others you may enjoy include Go Launcher EX, Apex Launcher, and ADW.Launcher.
Among Nova Launcher Prime's options is selecting the grid size (number of rows and columns), placing a persistent Google Search bar, and tweaking margins. I love using the launcher's revolving door effect. It looks much cooler than a simple slide. Additionally, users can opt to remove icon labels, allow for widgets to overlap, and lock the desktop in place.
I also appreciate the way I can sort my app drawer, hide unused titles, and organize content into tabs. Other minor touches include infinite scrolling panels, custom grouping, menu transparency, and transitions. Suffice it to say, I'm constantly backing up and restoring fun layouts all the time.
A particularly fun, and easy, way to spice things up is to replace the icons representing apps and games. There are innumerable icon packs or themes that one can download to adjust the overall aesthetics. Some of the more popular ones I've encountered along the way are Tersus, Snack Pack, and MIUI 5. Again, hit up some forums or search Google Play and you'll find some rather inspiring stuff.
Nova Launcher Prime isn't the only option for those looking to customize the home screen; the free version is a great way to take advantage of most options and settings. At nearly 5 million installs, the free Nova Launcher is a popular and feature-rich home screen launcher. Others you may enjoy include Go Launcher EX, Apex Launcher, and ADW.Launcher.
Solo Launcher
The best thing about Solo Launcher is that it's a totally free alternative to premium launchers. Indeed, you'll find a host of customization and personalization settings, many of which could cost $4 or more elsewhere.
Solo Launcher not only operates quickly and efficiently, but it also plays nice with themes from other launchers. Want to change the icon pack? Feel like mimicking the look of a Sony or Huawei? No problem. Other easily configured settings include live wallpapers, lock screens, and colors.
In addition to the general aesthetics, you'll be able to adjust home screen transitions, layouts, the app drawer, and home screen dock. I'm a big fan of unread notifications for missed calls, texts, and e-mails, and Solo Launcher provides this at no cost. Once you find a look that you really enjoy be sure to back it up. That way, you can return to it later should you wish to tinker about.
The launcher comes with a weather widget, and the developers also provide a number of additional apps and tools to further enhance your experience.
In addition to the general aesthetics, you'll be able to adjust home screen transitions, layouts, the app drawer, and home screen dock. I'm a big fan of unread notifications for missed calls, texts, and e-mails, and Solo Launcher provides this at no cost. Once you find a look that you really enjoy be sure to back it up. That way, you can return to it later should you wish to tinker about.
The launcher comes with a weather widget, and the developers also provide a number of additional apps and tools to further enhance your experience.
Ultimate Custom (Clock) Widget (UCCW)
As the name implies, the free Ultimate Custom (Clock) Widget app lets users create custom widgets that can be placed on just about any home screen. Regardless of whether you're using a stock launcher or something more tailored, UCCW can enhance the look of your desktop. While it's possible to create your own clock, weather, or battery widget, UCCW can also be used for tweaking notifications, alarms, and other options.
HD Widgets
If you're the type who prefers to dress up your existing home screen without heavy adjustments, I recommend checking out HD Widgets. As one of the more flexible $2.00 you can spend, this app provides endless widget layouts.
Zooper Widget
Zooper Widget might best be described as a tool to create really great Android widgets. Sure, it's actually a bundle of preset widgets, but that's just the beginning.