Xiaomi’s Mi A1 smartphone came in as a revival of Android One, a program which seemed to have fizzled out since its initial announcement a couple of years ago. Unlike Xiaomi’s other Mi phones, the Mi A1’s distinctive feature is its software: it runs stock Android, not Xiaomi’s own MIUI layer.
Android One is a hardware and software standard created by Google with a focus on entry-level devices for emerging markets. It is intended to provide a consistent user experience and improved security through frequent updates and Google Play Protect. And talking about the UI, as mentioned earlier, the Android One devices run stock Android with an array of features such as Google Now Integration, support for adaptive icons, and more.
Amir Zaidi, who goes by the name AmirZ on Reddit, has now released a rootless port of Android One launcher. He is the same user who also released a rootless port of Google’s Pixel launcher earlier. Here’s how to get the launcher working on any Android phone:
Steps to install Android One Launcher
- In order to get the Android One launcher on your phone, simply download the APK file and install it.
- Once you are done, set the default home screen as the new one and you are good to go.
Note: Before installing the modified launcher, make sure that you have neither the Pixel launcher nor the Android One launcher already installed on your device.
That being said, it is worth noting that both Android One launcher and Pixel launcher are more or less similar barring a few changes. The Android One launcher sports a slightly different looking app dock on the home screen, whereas the Pixel launcher houses the Google Search bar on the dock itself. The Android One launcher also has a differently styled app drawer. So if anything, we are mostly looking at aesthetic changes.
Lastly, if you are not content with both Android One as well as the Pixel launcher, you can take a look at some of the Pixel Launcher alternatives as well.
