Nova Launcher is one of the best known and most used applications to change the appearance of the operating system of an Android terminal. Well, the creator of this development, Kevin Barry, has just announced on his Google+ profile that he already has a new test version with the most interesting news.
These are mostly framed in the Nova Launcher visuals. It is true that some are included in its “interior”, but they are not too relevant and, for the most part, what they do is fix errors previous ones. Therefore, the key to the new features is in the design, which is mostly intended to achieve a similar appearance in some sections to that which will have Android L. To all this, we add optional settings which allow each change to be activated or deactivated at the user's discretion.
The truth is that the home screen already has an improved appearance and, in some details, it is noticeable that the similarity with Android L has been sought after, and a clear example is the lower space where the application icons are seen, where the designs and animations are really similar. In addition, the opening animation and closing apps can make the window appear to scroll to the bottom, achieving that clean, fluid aesthetic so associated with Material.
By the way, additionally a new experimental use mode is included called L-Preview, so you can already guess what you can find in it, which is nothing more than more similarities between Android L and Nova Launcher. However, those who have already tried the development indicate that navigation through the operating system is much smoother. The fact is that it's more or less clear that everyone wants to position themselves with the arrival of Google's new development, and a clear example is the new beta we're talking about. In any case, All these functions are optional and are activated separately, so you can maintain your style if you prefer.
In order to get the new trial version, 3.0.2, of Nova Launcher, you must participate in the development community and this is possible to get it in this link. Additionally, if what you want is the latest stable version of this job, here you can download it without any problems and also at no cost. Keep in mind that the betas are not as tested: These may include experimental fixes, but are installed as a normal update and do not require uninstalling the stable version.
Key new features inspired by Android L
- L-style folder view: Inline preview that arranges icons with a cleaner look.
- L-style search bar: a persistent search with a flatter aesthetic and typography in line with Material.
- Opaque app drawer icon: : white L-style button (editable with a long press on the drawer icon).
- Slide Up App Animation: Smoother opening transition, consistent with Material Design.
These additions are subtle and always optional. You can activate them one at a time and combine them to your liking, achieving everything from a light touch of Android L to a more complete customization.
How to enable L style options in Nova
- Folders: Nova Settings > Folders > Folder Preview > Line.
- Animation: Nova Settings > Look and Feel > App Animation > Slide Up.
- Search bar: Desktop > Persistent Search Bar > L (or long press the search widget > Edit).
- App drawer: Long press the drawer icon > Edit > tap the icon > Built-in > white icon.
If you don't notice any drastic changes, it's normal: the intention is refine the look without disrupting your organization. The combination of these options enhances visual coherence and a sense of fluidity.
Other improvements that accompany Nova 3.0
Along with the L-style facelift, Nova introduced features that remain distinctive: support for the command «Ok Google» from the desktop (in officially supported languages such as English, French or German), customizable colors for labels, tabs, and drawer backgrounds, and greater grid flexibility with subgrid to align icons to mid-cell.
Also allows widgets in the dock, advanced resizing, and compatibility with dynamic icons (for example, calendars that update the date). If you use Nova Launcher Prime, you add gestures, additional effects, unread counters and the option to hide apps.
Installation and beta access tips
Beta builds bring new features before than anyone else, but they may not be as stable. They are updated like any other app from Google Play (if you subscribe to the test channel) or via APK directly from the developer, and are compatible with Nova Prime. If you install a beta outside of the store, you can check for updates in Nova Settings > Nova Launcher Version > Beta and activate the automatic check.
If you want to know more applications of which we have talked about in Android Help, we recommend that you access this section where you can find a good list. In addition, in this other, you will be able to know different tricks for the operating system.
Source: Google+For the most demanding users, the developer advises having an updated device with solvent hardware so that functions like the voice hotword or certain animations run completely smoothly. With L-Preview mode active and the tuning paths you've seen, it's easy to replicate the style of Android L without losing the performance and customization benefits that make Nova so popular.
Those looking for a streamlined, customizable desktop with clear nods to Material Design will find this beta a solid step forward: granular activation design elements, consistent animations, and the assurance that you can stay on the stable version with just one tap if you prefer.
