Nova Launcher has been on the top of the heap when it comes to third-party launchers for a few years now, but you have to drop five smackers for the full version... most of the time. Coinciding with the release of v4.2 (previously in beta), Nova Launcher Prime is on sale for a mere $0.99 in the US and even less elsewhere.
Here's the changelog for v4.2. You'll probably recognize this stuff if you used the beta.
- Persistent search bar in drawer (Drawer > Search Bar)
- Frequently used apps in drawer (Drawer > Frequently used apps)
- Root workaround for M slow expand notifications (Look Feel > Notification Bar > Expand with root)
- New fast scroll in long lists
- Optimize startup time
- Faster and more stable than ever
The new version seems to address some of the new features added in the updated Google Now Launcher, which is appreciated. The workaround for the slow notification shade opening will be nice too. If you've experienced this, you'll know exactly how annoying it is. Unfortunately, this workaround requires root.
As for the sale, the price varies based on your region. In the US, it's $0.99, but cheaper elsewhere. See below.
- UK: £0.10
- France, Germany, Italy, and Spain: €0.10
- Russia: 10 RUB
- Australia: $0.20
- Everywhere else: the minimum allowed by Google
The sale goes until December 15th, so don't think about it too long. I mean, why are you even thinking? It's almost no money.
Source: +Cliff Wade