Google Now Launcher Availability Expands To Nexus, Google Play Devices

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google_now_launcher
The Google Now Launcher has been updated and is now available for all Nexus and Google Play Edition devices. From my perspective the  advantage of this “stock” launcher is being able to swipe right to access Google Now cards that give you just the right information, at just the right time.

In order to more seamlessly manage the Android upgrade process Google have been unbundling many of the  components of the Android experience (Keyboard, Launcher) and placing them into the Google Play Store where Google controls the pace of updates and not the carrier.

According to the Google Play Store listing the other key features of the launcher:

• Google Now on your home screen – it’s easier than ever to get just the right information at just the right time.
• Just say “Ok Google” – when you’re on your home screen, just say “Ok Google” to trigger voice input. Then say your search query. Or tell your phone what to do, like send a text message, get directions, or play a song (available in the US, UK, and Canada).
• Faster search – tap the search box and you can enter your query immediately.
• Easy access to your favorite Google products and services, like Gmail, YouTube, and Maps.
• Larger viewing area – the status and navigation bars are now translucent, so your wallpaper pops from every pixel, and is even visible when you expand your apps drawer (when supported by device).
• Intuitive wallpaper picker – select any image that’s stored on your device, or in the cloud. Position and preview your wallpaper before you set it.

Google Now Launcher

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About the Author

Wayne Schulz
Wayne is a diehard Android user and consultant specializing in Sage 100 ERP Accounting Software. He lives in Glastonbury CT with his two children. When not helping them with their homework or pushing the latest school fundraiser off on his co-workers, he is active hiking and investigating all manner of technology.

2 Comments on "Google Now Launcher Availability Expands To Nexus, Google Play Devices"

  1. Awesome. Loaded on my Nexus 7 and its smooth. Doesn’t work on my Galaxy Nexus. Still stock and 4.2.2 on Verizon.

  2. Now if only Google could fix the whole Google Now/Maps/Contacts integration so it actually worked correctly for everyone….

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