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Nova Launcher 8.1.3 Update Revives Features Amid Uncertainty

10/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Nova Launcher released version 8.1.3 on the Google Play Store beta channel, despite earlier shutdown indications.
The update adds color customization, improved web search history, and redesigned media and weather cards.
Rob Wainwright, the former developer, says the work dates from more than a year ago and that no original Branch Metrics team members remain.
The future remains uncertain, with guidance to review app permissions and data practices.

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Story summary

Nova Launcher released version 8.1.3 on the Google Play Store beta channel, despite earlier shutdown indications.
The update adds color customization, improved web search history, and redesigned media and weather cards.
Rob Wainwright, the former developer, says the work dates from more than a year ago and that no original Branch Metrics team members remain.
The future remains uncertain, with guidance to review app permissions and data practices.