14 DAY TRIAL // Google has officially launched the Pixel Launcher in the Play Store, and although most Android users already tried it with the APK before the actual release, everyone can now get the stable version.
In essence, the Pixel Launcher allows Android users to try out the home screen experience that Google implemented in its new Pixel and Pixel XL phones, bringing several refinements, such as improved navigation and a bunch of new features.
As with other launchers, Pixel Launcher allows users to quickly access Google Cards by simply swiping right from the home screen, or launch Google Search without actually leaving the screen.
Supporting Android 5.0 and up
According to the Play store listing, Pixel Launcher is now at version 7.1.1-3359438 and requires Android 5.0 and up, although we’ve heard from our readers that, in some cases, it can only be installed on Android 7.1 developer preview. This is only the case with the icons, though, as the launcher itself can be installed on the majority of Android phones running Lollipop or newer.
We’ve already installed it on several of our Android phones here at Softpedia and everything seems to be running smoothly, but there’s no noticeable difference as compared to previous versions.
Additionally, Google has also launched a new Wallpapers app that brings even more customization to Android phones, as it comes with access to a large collection of high-resolution images from Google Earth, Google+ and other partners, but also with daily wallpapers for home and lock screens.
What’s important to know is that the Google Play Store listing doesn’t seem to be available for everyone, so the link is most likely going live in stages across the world, but fortunately, there’s a solution.
You can download the Pixel Launcher APK right now, as well as the Wallpapers app that provides you with all the customization power you need. Furthermore, if you’re interested in using the Pixel icons with another launcher, you can find them here.
