I love the versatility and ingenuity of third-party Android launchers. I often ditch the default home screen on new phones as soon as possible, but in the case of Pixel Launcher commanding my Pixel 8, I’m growing rather fond of Google’s default home app. It’s swift, smooth, and easy to set up, even if it is often highly restrictive. I’ve learned to work within the confines of Google’s launcher limitations, but I admit that it could be made even better with just a few nips and tucks.
Pixel Launcher’s feature kit is lacking compared to the high level set by third-party and other OEM launchers. More importantly, many of these gaps are simple, quality-of-life improvements that Google could quickly implement at the snap of a finger. To give the company a jolt in the right direction, I’ve detailed some core additions that would make Pixel Launcher my absolute favorite home experience.