Today has been the day when the return of Nokia to Android has been confirmed, and it has done so with a tablet (not with a phone) which already we have talked to you in Android Help. Regarding the operating system, Lollipop is used, which is not bad, but what is interesting is also the use of the user interface called Z Launcher.
And, unlike many companies, Nokia doesn't want use to be restricted to its devices, which for now is limited to one. Therefore, it has put a trial version in the Google Play Store app store for that anyone can try it and use it. The specific link to get the development is this one and the installation process is the usual one for any application; in addition, the space which occupies about 5 MB.
The fact is that Z Launcher has as its use key the one that adapts to the applications you use the most, even taking into account the hours for this. So, if you use some developments in the morning and others in the afternoon, the interface adjusts so that you can always quickly find the ones that best suit you. By the way, the way search for apps by typing of letters on the screen is most curious: when you scribble a letter, the system instantly filters it. In addition to apps, it also suggests Contact y web addresses that begin with that letter and are frequently visited, and keeps shortcuts visible to key elements such as the camera, phone, browser, or calendar.
That said, we don't see a very clear way to manage widgets, for example. In any case, we've only been using the development for a while, so we have to go deeper regarding its use. That said, recent versions of the Beta have been incorporating support for standard Android widgets, one of the most requested features, so if it's available to you, you'll be able to pin and rearrange them from the home screen without any hassle.
What is Z Launcher and why is it different?
- Scribble: Type one or more letters with your finger and instantly filter apps, contacts, and websites that begin with them.
- Launch: Open apps, call contacts, or access common URLs without having to navigate through menus or app drawers.
- Adapt: The launcher learns your routines and shows you the most useful ones at the right time, reducing steps and time.
Download and install Z Launcher
To test Z Launcher, Nokia enabled its Beta on Google Play Store. Once it's available in your region or account, just tap Install and grant the usual permissions. If it doesn't appear in the store at any point, you may need to install it using its APK file and proceed manually (in this link, for example, was available), with the precaution of enabling unknown sources and verifying the source. The package is lightweight and installs in seconds, so it's convenient to try it out and decide if it fits into your daily routine.
Widgets and customization
One of the most requested additions was compatibility with standard widgets. When active in your version, you'll be able to insert them into their dedicated area and combine them with shortcuts. The launcher's philosophy remains the same: it's all about show what is important without cluttering the screen. Plus, the alphabetical drawer or list is still available for those who prefer to browse all the apps.
Requirements and compatibility
Z Launcher works on devices with Android 4.1 or higher and it works well with phones and tablets. Its power consumption is moderate and its interface is simple, making it a good choice for devices looking for fluidity without sacrificing smart features.
Tips to make the most of it
- Scribble several letters in a row for more precise searches when you have many similar apps.
- If your language does not recognize strokes well, download the recognition package corresponding to fine-tune results.
- The camera, phone, browser and calendar remain accessible from the home screen, speeding up daily Homeworks.
- Use long press on items to discover contextual options how to move, remove from suggested or open information.
If it doesn't appear in your Play Store
If Z Launcher is temporarily unavailable in your region or is no longer listed, you can test alternatives that replicate your idea scribble to searchOne of the most notable is ReZ Launcher, which maintains a minimalist approach, adds modern options such as widgets, notification dots and shortcuts, and is Free No ads. It'll let you get a closer look at the Z Launcher experience while you check if it's available again from the official store.
Other applications for the Google operating system, including Launchers, can be found at this section Android Help. We hope you find some that are of your interest.
As a proposal, Z Launcher stands out for its intelligent simplicity: It learns from you, shows you what you need at any given moment, and speeds up access to apps, contacts, and websites with a natural gesture. If you're looking for real speed and a home screen that doesn't make you think, this is an option worth trying.
