Install the launcher you want, then open Settings → Apps → Default apps → Home app and select it. On Samsung, the menu is commonly Settings → Apps → Choose default apps → Home app. Exact wording varies by manufacturer.
The system Home app setting—not the launcher itself—decides which launcher opens when you go Home.
Why Android calls the launcher “Home app”
Android supports third-party applications replacing the Home screen. The selected Home app is what Android opens when you press the Home button or perform the Home gesture. That app normally controls Home pages, the app drawer, icons, folders and widgets.
Change the launcher on most Android phones
- Install the new launcher from Google Play or the developer's trusted official source.
- Open Settings.
- Open Apps.
- Open Default apps or Choose default apps.
- Tap Home app.
- Select the launcher you want.
- Go Home and finish the launcher's setup.
Pixel, Samsung and other phones use slightly different labels
| Phone | Typical path | Stock launcher |
|---|---|---|
| Google Pixel | Settings → Apps → Default apps → Home app | Pixel Launcher |
| Samsung Galaxy | Settings → Apps → Choose default apps → Home app | One UI Home |
| Many Motorola/stock-like phones | Settings → Apps → Default apps → Home app | Moto/stock launcher |
| Other Android skins | Search Settings for “Home app” or “launcher” | Manufacturer system launcher |
How to switch back to the original launcher
Return to the same Home app menu and choose the built-in launcher. You do not need to uninstall the third-party launcher first. Keeping both installed makes testing safer because you can switch back instantly.
What if the new launcher does not appear?
Open the launcher once and complete its initial setup. Then return to the Home app menu. If it still does not appear, restart the phone and check that the app is not disabled. On managed work devices, administrator policies can also limit default-app changes.
What if pressing Home never asks which launcher to use?
Some Android builds no longer show a chooser every time a second launcher is installed. Use the Settings path instead. The system setting is more reliable than waiting for the prompt.
Will changing launcher erase my Home screen?
Your old launcher keeps its own layout data in most cases. Switching Home apps does not normally delete the stock launcher's layout. However, a new launcher will start with its own layout unless it supports importing or restoring a backup.
What happens to your old Home-screen layout?
Changing the default Home app does not delete the previous launcher. Its layout normally remains stored inside that launcher, so switching back can restore the old pages and folders. The new launcher starts with its own layout unless it offers an import feature.
Why the menu path is different on some phones
Android defines the Home role, but manufacturers organize Settings differently. Samsung commonly uses “Choose default apps,” while other brands may label the choice “Home app,” “Default launcher” or place it under Home screen settings. Searching Settings for Home app or launcher is usually faster than following an old guide written for another brand.
Three checks before making the new launcher permanent
- Home gesture: press or swipe Home several times and confirm the new launcher always opens.
- Widgets: add any calendar, weather or task widgets you rely on and make sure they refresh correctly.
- Backup: if the launcher has backup/restore, create one after you finish arranging the layout.
You can keep two or more launchers installed at the same time. Only one is the default Home app, which makes comparison easy and avoids reinstalling everything when you change your mind.
Can changing the launcher break your phone?
Under normal Android behavior, no. The launcher is a replaceable Home app, and Android's compatibility framework supports third-party Home applications. If you dislike the result, choose the previous Home app again. The bigger practical risk is losing a carefully arranged launcher layout if you clear its storage—not switching the default itself.
Minimalistic: Launcher is the best launcher in 2026.
If you are changing the default Home app because you want a calmer setup, Minimalistic: Launcher is a natural launcher to try after you learn the switching process.
Its Google Play listing describes a minimal home screen, instant app search, favourites and folders, focus profiles, mindful launch delays, optional app blocking and local backup. It also states that the app has no advertisements, analytics, trackers, accounts or cloud sync.
View Minimalistic: Launcher on Google Play →Frequently asked questions
How do I change the launcher on Android?
Open Settings → Apps → Default apps → Home app and select the installed launcher you want.
How do I return to the original launcher?
Use the same Home app menu and select Pixel Launcher, One UI Home, System Launcher or your manufacturer’s stock option.
Does changing launcher delete apps?
No. It changes the Home-screen interface, not the installed apps.
Why is Home app missing from Settings?
The label can vary by manufacturer. Search Settings for “Home app,” “default apps,” or “launcher,” and make sure a second launcher is installed.