Nova Launcher's New Update Introduces Ads, Angering Users
Nova Launcher has a fresh set of owners, who with the last update brought discontentment for its users through ads. Nova Launcher is an acclaimed Android app that was earlier thought to be left in the lurch. This new lease of life with updates has stirred a storm of unrest among its users due to the arrival of advertisements in the free version.
Instabridge's Plans for Monetizing
The owners plan on keeping the charm of the original Nova Launcher look and feel. But Instabridge also stated that they want a sustainable revenue model to allow the development of the project to continue. Towards that end, they are considering monetization options like the introduction of paid subscription tiers or showing ads in the free version. They confirmed that the ad-free user experience for Nova Prime users will still remain and that all previously purchased Prime licenses will still be honored.
User Backlash Over In-App Advertisements
The user backlash, the backlash already on the radar for the ads. Negative reviews from users on other forums and Play Store indicate ads are already active. Technical assessment of the latest version 8.2.4 found the presence of advertising SDKs from Facebook Ads and Google AdMob integrated into it. Along with this, there are new permissions regarding Android Advertisement Service, including access to the advertising ID and attribution granted to this app. Users report seeing banner ads popping up within the all apps menu.
Data Privacy and the Future of Nova
Instabridge addressed privacy concerns by assuring that any data collected would only be minimal and transparent, and no personal information would be sold to advertisers. It is also considering the possibility of making Nova Launcher an open-source project but has not laid down any concrete plans so far.
