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

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