FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Practical details about setting up, using, and customizing Minimal Launcher.
Starting
What is Minimal Launcher?
Minimal Launcher is a text-based Android home screen built around a clock, favorite apps, and a searchable app drawer. It removes icon grids, widgets, feeds, and other elements that compete for attention.
How do I set Minimal Launcher as my home screen?
After installing it, choose Minimal Launcher when Android asks which Home app to use. You can also change this later under Settings → Apps → Default apps → Home app. The exact wording may vary slightly by device.
How do I switch back to another launcher?
Open Android’s default-app settings and select another Home app. You can then keep Minimal Launcher installed or remove it through Android’s App info screen.
Using
How do I open the app drawer and find an app?
Swipe up anywhere on the home screen to open the app drawer. Start typing to filter the alphabetized list; when one matching result remains, it launches automatically.
How do I add or remove favorite apps?
Long-press an app and choose the favorite action. You can keep up to ten favorites on the home screen and remove them through the same long-press menu.
Can I rename or hide apps?
Yes. Long-press an app in the drawer to rename it or hide it from the normal app list. Hidden apps can be reviewed and restored from the hidden-apps view.
Hiding an app is an organizational feature, not a security lock. It does not uninstall, disable, or password-protect the app.
How do I open Settings?
Long-press the home-screen background. From Settings, you can adjust appearance, clock options, gestures, the app drawer, and other launcher behavior.
What can I customize?
You can choose the system, light, or dark theme; use the system wallpaper; adjust interface scale, font, grayscale text color, and text shadow; configure the clock and date; and assign actions to left, right, and downward swipes.
Does Minimal Launcher support widgets, feeds, or an icon grid?
No. Minimal Launcher intentionally keeps the home screen limited to the clock, date, and apps you choose to keep close. Everything else stays in the searchable drawer.
Privacy and cost
Does Minimal Launcher collect or transmit personal data?
Minimal Launcher has no Internet permission and does not transmit your app inventory, settings, wallpaper, or other app data. It has no advertising, analytics, account creation, crash reporting, remote configuration, or cross-app tracking. Launcher settings are stored locally on your device.
Read the Privacy Policy for the complete explanation.
Is Minimal Launcher free?
Yes. Minimal Launcher is free, with no ads, subscriptions, in-app purchases, paywalls, or prompts to upgrade.