Neo Launcher review
A free, customizable Android launcher for users who want control over icons, gestures, and app organization.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Neo Launcher is an open-source home-screen replacement for Android users who want more control over the interface than a default launcher may provide. Its AOSP Launcher3 base supports themes, icon shapes and third-party icon packs, configurable gestures, custom widgets, and app-drawer organization. It is aimed at people who enjoy arranging their home screen and app list, rather than users seeking a simple, fixed layout. The vendor lists Android 11 or higher as the minimum requirement.
Customization extends beyond appearance. Users can sort drawer apps, create categories or folders, hide apps, and adjust icon scaling. Configurable gestures and quick shortcuts offer additional ways to reach actions, while The Dash provides a quick-access panel. Custom search-engine integration is also listed. Backup and restore covers preferences, layout, and customizations, which can help preserve a carefully arranged setup when moving or resetting a device. These controls make Neo Launcher a fit for users who want to shape both the home screen and the app drawer.
Neo Launcher is free and open source, with installation offered through IzzyOnDroid and direct release downloads. The project page describes development as ongoing, focused on an Android 16-based version; the latest version on the vendor's opened GitHub releases page is 0.9.3. Community support is the listed support channel. Choose it if open-source availability and extensive layout controls matter more than a settled development trajectory. Users who need a launcher with verified app-search behavior or a different support model should compare alternatives before switching.
Neo Launcher pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Organizes apps with drawer categories, folders, sorting, and hiding
- Offers customizable themes, icons, gestures, and quick shortcuts
- Backs up and restores preferences, layout, and customizations
- Where it doesn't
- Requires Android 11 or higher
- The project is in progress, with development focused on an Android 16-based version
- Support is community-based
Neo Launcher fact sheet, pricing and score →
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