The Before Launcher app is designed as a minimalist solution for Android users who want to streamline their mobile experience. Recognized among the top ten minimal launchers and endorsed by popular technology reviewers like Mrwhosetheboss and Copper vs Glass, the app highlights the advantage of reducing phone usage by 40 percent. By helping users filter out unnecessary notifications—given that around 80% of all alerts do not require immediate attention—it promotes a more focused and productive way of using smartphones. The primary goal of Before Launcher is to minimize distractions, allowing individuals to concentrate on their essential tasks instead of being overwhelmed by constant notifications.
What sets Before Launcher apart is its commitment to user experience without the complications of advertisements or subscription services. Users can make a one-time lifetime purchase that grants them unlimited access across all their devices, ensuring a clutter-free interface without the typical intrusions found in many free applications. The launcher offers core features like a minimal homescreen that enables users to quickly access their most important applications, customizable themes for personalization, and streamlined access to a comprehensive list of apps through easy scrolling and searching functionalities.
The app also allows users to manage their applications effectively by creating folders, pinning favorite apps, and even hiding less significant ones to reduce clutter. Additionally, the filtered notification drawer stands out by silencing trivial alerts, thereby preventing disruptive pings or vibrations while still keeping users informed about important notifications as defined by themselves. This direct approach to customization enhances user satisfaction and encourages mindfulness as users engage with their devices.
Furthermore, Before Launcher emphasizes privacy and security, evident in its design that avoids unnecessary data collection. Unlike many applications that require extensive permissions, Before Launcher only seeks one permission related to its notification filtering feature, all while ensuring users can opt-out if desired. Additionally, the app incorporates a suite of custom widgets crafted for users’ wellness, promoting healthier screen time habits through mindfulness practices. Various options are available for users to customize the app icon appearance, creating a user-specific aesthetic that aligns with their preferences.
Having been acknowledged as one of Fast Company's best new apps in 2019, Before Launcher is inspired by the broader minimalism movement and literature focusing on reducing digital distractions. The app further includes a double-tap feature that utilizes Android's Accessibility Service API for easy screen management, reinforcing its commitment to user-friendly design. With customer support handled by real humans rather than AI, users can easily reach out for assistance or feedback. Overall, the Before Launcher stands out as an innovative tool for enhancing productivity and minimizing distractions in the digital age.