POCO Launcher is a free Android launcher developed by Xiaomi. This is the same launcher used in Xiaomi’s POCO smartphone lineup. It promises a cleaner, more streamlined Android experience. It achieves this by offering a redesigned interface, app organization tools, and personalization options, as well as additional extras and features.

POCO Launcher distinguishes itself from other launchers with a noticeably flatter and cleaner aesthetic compared to Android. It diverts away from intricate animations and skeuomorphic design elements. Instead, you're greeted with a simplified, almost minimalist interface. This design philosophy extends to the settings menu, which is stripped down and straightforward.

Clean and dynamic app launcher

POCO Launcher offers some customization options. Choose from various themes, apply custom icon packs, and tweak the app drawer's appearance. App icons are organized, and the app drawer features an alphabetical scroll bar for quick and easy navigation. It also includes an app-hiding feature to hide sensitive apps. Notification badges are also here to stay: they provide a clear visual indicator of unread notifications.

The launcher's main appeal lies primarily in its simplified interface and streamlined approach to Android. If you find the traditional Android interface cluttered or overwhelming, it offers a refreshing alternative. It's also a good option for users who prefer a minimalist aesthetic and don't require extensive customization options. There’s also a theme market within the launcher, and you can choose from wallpapers, themes, and fonts if your phone supports it.

The launcher generally performs smoothly. Apps launch quickly, and scrolling through the app drawer is fast. However, there are occasional stutters and lags when switching between apps. It could be a deal-breaker for users who want a smooth experience. Another factor is that compared to Nova Launcher or Lawnchair Launcher, its customization options are limited. You won't find granular control over things like grid size, icon labels, or transition effects.

A minimalistic launcher to try

POCO Launcher is a promising launcher that offers a refreshing take on the Android experience. It has a simple, yet responsive set of features that’s easy to set and appreciate. However, if you crave extensive customization, rock-solid stability, and bleeding-edge features, you may be better served by a more mature and feature-rich launcher. Nonetheless, if you're looking for a simple, fast, and clutter-free Android experience, POCO Launcher is worth a try.