Google launched the Pixel and Pixel XL smartphones last fall, introducing the Pixel Launcher to its new devices. This isn't the only launcher from the giant, as many Android smartphones have been released with the Google Now Launcher built-in since 2014.
According to a recent report from Android Police, Google plans to discontinue its Google Now launcher and replace it with the Pixel Launcher. The company has reportedly notified its partners of its decision to remove the Google Now Launcher from the Play Store by the end of March.
Users who have the Google Now launcher installed on their phones will be able to continue using the app even after it is removed from the Play Store. Google plans to support the launcher and release updates through the Google Search app.
Starting March 1, Google will no longer approve the use of the Google Now Launcher on new devices, however this will not affect manufacturers that have already integrated the launcher into their devices, such as Motorola.
This move is not surprising given that Google seems to be moving away from the Nexus line of phones and has neglected the Google Now Launcher app lately.
The most likely scenario is that the company will start rolling out the Pixel Launcher to non-Pixel devices, gradually replacing the Google Now launcher on Android smartphones.
