Nokia Z launcher receives significant update, pre-beta program opened for new users


Nokia rolled out Z launcher for Android in June that predicts apps and brings them in the front depending upon user usage pattern and preferences.  Today, the Z launcher has received an update  that will allow you to configure the way you want your favorite apps to appear on your home screen, using drag and drop.

Nokia Z launcher

“Today, we’re releasing our first significant update to Z Launcher based on your feedback and suggestions. Z Launcher will notify you of an update, but you can also check manually in Z Launcher settings.We have incorporated some of the most popular suggestions in this latest version with more to come. We’re still in the early phases of developing Z Launcher so please keep sending us your suggestions for improvements”

posted Nokia Z launcher via its blog.

The Z launcher was previously available for a limited number of users however, this update has also opened more pre-beta sign ups. Nokia says that it has rolled several user-requested features into the update and that it plans to continue to do so in the future.
The list of changes included in the update:

  • Configure Favorites via drag-n-drop on your home screen – #2 requested feature on user forum.
  • Hide apps, Uninstall apps via press-n-hold: A quick way to get rid of stuff you don’t want – #3 top requested feature on user forum.
  • Better support on HTC One and Moto X – We continue to work on adding support for popular devices.
  • Wi-Fi SSID incorporated into our algorithm – Aimed at improving the algorithm’s ability to recognize and promote apps used on specific networks.
  • Data Insight – Explore how you use your phone, what apps and contacts you access and when. If people like this feature, we’ll develop it further, but for now we kept it simple.
  • Bug fixes here and there – We’ve worked hard to make Z Launcher more reliable.

Beta testing has expanded to include Moto X and HTC One users, but as beta testing continues it’s likely that Nokia will add to the list of phones that are compatible with the launcher.


Author: Sneha Bokil

Sneha Bokil is a tech enthusiast and is currently using OnePlus 3T but she still treasures her Nokia N70 (M). You can follow her on Twitter @snehabokil and on Google+