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Ion Launcher vs Nova Launcher: catalog facts
Ion Launcher	Nova Launcher
Free Free and open source under GPL-3.0-or-later.	Freemium A free version is available. Nova Launcher Prime is a one-time purchase.
Android	Android
Automatically groups apps into categories Home screen color customization	The most complete set of home screen customisation options available Backup and restore of a whole layout between devices
Android only	Development slowed considerably after the Branch acquisition Gestures and several features require the paid Prime upgrade
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Closed source
License: GPL-3.0-or-later	License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Checked October 8, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Checked September 22, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.