A custom launcher is a third-party app that takes over your TV’s home screen, replacing Google’s cluttered, ad-filled interface with a clean, app-focused layout that loads faster and respects your privacy.
STATUS DISCLAIMER
Feature Status: WORKING
IMPORTANT UPDATE: In March 2026, a Google TV system update temporarily disrupted some custom launchers, including Projectivy. Users reported that resetting launcher settings and re-enabling the “override current launcher” option restored functionality. As of September 2026, all major launchers are working with the proper configuration.
If you’re on a Google TV Streamer, Chromecast with Google TV, NVIDIA Shield, TCL, Hisense, or similar device, this guide applies to you. For more on device compatibility, see our smart TV operating systems guide.
Why Replace the Stock Google TV Launcher?
What It Is
Google TV’s default interface is a content-first platform designed to surface recommendations across streaming services. In practice, this means your home screen is filled with:
- Ads and promoted content throughout the interface
- Recommendations from services you’ve never opened
- A Shop tab you likely never use
- AI-curated Shorts tabs rolling out to some devices
- Autoplaying video previews that slow down navigation
None of this is meaningfully removable through Google’s own settings. For comparison, Amazon’s Fire TV has similar issues—Vega OS on Fire TV also limits customization options.
Who Is This Guide For?
- Anyone tired of ads cluttering their TV home screen
- Users experiencing sluggish performance with the stock launcher
- Privacy-conscious individuals who don’t want Google tracking every viewing habit
- Tech enthusiasts who want a cleaner, more customizable experience
- Cord-cutters who just want to get to their apps quickly
Value Proposition
- Faster navigation — third-party launchers are significantly snappier
- Zero ads — no promoted content, no unwanted recommendations
- Complete customization — choose your wallpaper, layout, and app organization
- Privacy-first — no tracking of your viewing habits
- Completely free options available
Quick-Reference
For experienced users—skip the reading and install now.
| Launcher | Style | Price | ADB Required? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Projectivy Launcher | Minimal, highly customizable | Free / $7.50 Pro | No (Accessibility method) | Most users — best balance of features and ease |
| Arc Launcher | Apple TV-inspired, app-first | Free | Optional | Apple TV fans, minimalists |
| FLauncher | Open-source, ultra-minimal | Free | Optional | Open-source enthusiasts, extreme minimalists |
| ATV Launcher Pro | Grid-based, highly customizable (Android TV only) | Paid | Optional | Power users with Android TV devices |
| AT4K Launcher | Fast, clean, modern | Free / $5 Premium | Optional | Lightweight, responsive experience |
| Monet Launcher | Material You, dynamic colors | Free / Premium unlock | Optional | Roku-style interface fans, Material You enthusiasts |
Individual Launcher Reviews
1. Projectivy Launcher — The Best Overall
Projectivy is widely considered the leading Google TV launcher replacement and the first choice for most users.
Key Features:
- Ad-free, minimal interface
- Significantly faster than the stock launcher on identical hardware
- Override current launcher — takes over the Home button without ADB (Accessibility method)
- Customizable wallpaper, icon size, and layout
- Parental controls
- Sideload apps directly from the launcher
- Watch Next row — resume content from supported streaming services
- Additional content rows from Amazon Prime, Apple TV+, Disney+, and others
Limitations:
- Google TV updates can occasionally disrupt the override setting
- Pro version ($7.50 one-time) unlocks extra customizations
Verdict: The most recommended option for almost everyone.
2. Arc Launcher — The Apple TV Experience
Arc Launcher brings a clean, Apple TV-inspired interface to Google TV. It is a fork of LTvLauncher, which is based on FLauncher.
Key Features:
- App-first design — puts your apps front and center
- Clean grid layout — easy to scan and navigate
- Ad-free and open-source
- Custom sections — group apps into categories
- Day/night wallpaper switching
- Status bar — shows date, time, and network info
Limitations:
- Lacks the advanced content integration of Projectivy
- Fewer customization options than Projectivy
Verdict: The best choice for Apple TV fans and users who want a pure app-grid experience.
3. FLauncher — The Open-Source Minimalist
FLauncher is a free, open-source launcher that strips Google TV down to the essentials.
Key Features:
- Ultra-lightweight — minimal resource usage
- Ad-free interface
- Open-source — community-verified code
- Hide apps — keep your home screen clean
- Support for sideloaded apps
Limitations:
- Fewer features than Projectivy or Arc
- Basic customization compared to paid options
Verdict: The best free, open-source option for users who want simplicity above all else.
4. ATV Launcher Pro — The Android TV Power User’s Choice
Important: ATV Launcher Pro is primarily designed for Android TV, not Google TV. While it may work on some Google TV devices, its grid-based layout is optimized for Android TV’s app-centric interface. This is a paid app — not free like the other options.
ATV Launcher Pro has been a fan favorite for years, offering a flexible grid-based layout and app grouping capabilities.
Key Features:
- Flexible grid-based layout — customize rows and columns
- App grouping — organize apps your way
- Wallpaper support
- Widget support — weather, clock, and app-specific widgets
Verdict: Best for power users with Android TV devices who want granular control. Google TV users should consider Projectivy or AT4K instead.
5. AT4K Launcher — Fast, Clean, Modern
AT4K Launcher is a lightweight, responsive launcher designed for speed and simplicity.
Key Features:
- Apple TV-style interface
- Fast and responsive even on older hardware
- Premium version ($5 one-time) unlocks additional features
- Clean, modern design
- Low resource usage
Verdict: The best choice for users who want a fast, Apple TV-inspired experience without the complexity of Projectivy.
6. Monet Launcher — Material You and Dynamic Colors
Monet Launcher is a fresh third-party launcher that implements Google’s Material You theming with dynamic colors and Roku-style navigation.
Key Features:
- Material You theming — dynamic colors based on wallpaper
- Living wallpapers and ambient scenes
- Roku-style horizontal navigation
- No ads — completely ad-free experience
- Works on Fire TV devices as well
- Premium unlock available for additional features
Verdict: A great option for users who want a Roku-style interface with Material You design. Also a good choice for Fire TV users.
Installation Methods
There are two primary methods to replace the stock Google TV launcher:
| Method | Difficulty | Risk | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Method 1: Accessibility | Easy | Low | Most users — no technical skills required |
| Method 2: ADB Commands | Moderate | Medium | Users wanting the most reliable, permanent solution |
Method 1: Accessibility Method (No ADB Required) — RECOMMENDED
This is the simplest and safest method. Most modern launchers (Projectivy, Arc, FLauncher, AT4K) support this approach.
Step 1: Install Your Chosen Launcher
- On your Google TV, open the Google Play Store
- Search for your chosen launcher (e.g., “Projectivy Launcher”)
- Click Install
Note: If the launcher is unavailable in your region, you can sideload it from a reputable source. Learn how to install APK files on Android TV devices.
Step 2: Open the Launcher
- Click Open after installation
- The launcher will display welcome screens explaining how it works
- Grant all requested permissions — the launcher won’t work without them
Step 3: Enable Accessibility Access
- Go to Settings (gear icon in the launcher)
- Select Accessibility
- Find and enable your launcher (e.g., Projectivy Launcher)
Step 4: Override the Current Launcher
- Go to Settings (gear icon)
- Select Projectivy Launcher Settings → General
- Enable “Override current launcher”
- You may need to grant additional permissions under Accessibility first
Step 5: Test It
- Press the Home button on your remote
- Your new launcher should now appear instead of the Google TV interface
Method 2: ADB Commands (More Reliable)
For users who want a more permanent solution or whose launcher doesn’t support the Accessibility method.
WARNING: This method involves disabling system packages. Follow instructions carefully. Learn how to enable Developer Options before proceeding.
Important Warnings Before You Start
- YouTube Button: On Chromecast with Google TV devices, the dedicated YouTube button on the remote will stop working if you disable the stock launcher. There is no easy workaround for this.
- Quick Settings: Disabling the stock launcher may also make the Quick Settings menu (accessible from the top-right of the home screen) harder to access or missing entirely.
- Restoring the Stock Launcher: If you need to re-enable the stock launcher, run the re-enable commands provided below.
Step 1: Enable Developer Options
- Go to Settings → Device Preferences → About
- Click on Build Number 7 times until you see “You are now a developer!”
Step 2: Enable USB Debugging
- Go back to Settings → Device Preferences → Developer Options
- Turn on USB Debugging
Step 3: Install Your Launcher
- Install your chosen launcher from the Google Play Store (or sideload the APK). Guide to installing APK files on Android TV.
Step 4: Connect via ADB (Wireless Debugging for Android 11+)
For modern Google TV devices running Android 11+:
- Go to Developer Options → Wireless Debugging and turn it on.
- Select Pair device with pairing code.
- On your computer terminal, run:
adb pair <IP_ADDRESS>:<PORT>Enter the pairing code shown on your TV screen. - Once paired, run:
adb connect <IP_ADDRESS>:<STREAMING_PORT>
For older devices (Android 10 and below):
- On your computer, open Command Prompt (Windows) or Terminal (Mac/Linux)
- Navigate to the folder containing adb.exe
- Connect to your TV:
adb connect YOUR_TV_IP_ADDRESS - Accept the connection prompt on your TV
Alternative: Use the Bugjaeger app on your phone (available on Android and iOS) for wireless ADB without a computer.
Step 5: Disable the Stock Launcher
Run these commands to disable Google’s default launcher packages:
adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.google.android.apps.tv.launcherx
adb shell pm disable-user --user 0 com.google.android.tungsten.setupwraithNote: On some devices, the package name may be
com.google.android.tvlauncherinstead.
Step 6: Reboot and Test
- Press the Home button on your remote
- A prompt may appear asking for the default launcher — select your new launcher
- Your custom launcher should now be the default
Restoring the Stock Launcher
If you need to re-enable the stock launcher, run:
adb shell pm enable com.google.android.apps.tv.launcherx
adb shell pm enable com.google.android.tungsten.setupwraithMethod 3: Launcher Manager (Alternative)
If ADB commands feel intimidating, you can use Launcher Manager for Android TV (v1.04).
- Sideload Launcher Manager for Android TV (v1.04)
- Open it and allow permission to write secure settings
- Select your stock launcher — it should work
Troubleshooting: How to Fix Common Launcher Errors
Launcher doesn’t appear when pressing Home
Likely Cause: Accessibility/override permission not granted
Solution: Re-enable Accessibility access for the launcher
“Override current launcher” option is grayed out
Likely Cause: Accessibility permission not granted
Solution: Go to Settings → Accessibility and enable the launcher
Google TV update broke the custom launcher
Likely Cause: System update reset the override setting
Solution: Toggle “Override current launcher” off and on again
TV boots into Google TV instead of custom launcher
Likely Cause: Google TV launcher still active
Solution: Use ADB to disable Google TV packages (Method 2)
Black screen after disabling stock launcher
Likely Cause: SetupWraith package causing issues
Solution: Press Home button — the custom launcher should appear
Launcher Manager not working
Likely Cause: Using wrong version
Solution: Use Launcher Manager for Android TV (v1.04), not “Ultimate”
Quick Settings menu missing
Likely Cause: Google TV launcher disabled. For alternative ways to access settings, see our Firestick settings guide for comparison.
Solution: Quick Settings is tied to the Google TV launcher — this is a trade-off
YouTube button on remote not working
Likely Cause: Stock launcher disabled on Chromecast
Solution: This is a known limitation — no easy workaround
“App not installed” error
Likely Cause: Corrupt APK or insufficient storage
Solution: Re-download APK from a trusted source; free up storage
Remote Home button opens Google TV instead
Likely Cause: Launcher not set as default
Solution: Re-run the Accessibility setup or use ADB method
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will replacing the launcher void my warranty?
No. Installing a third-party launcher does not void your warranty. You’re not modifying the operating system — you’re simply installing an app that takes over the home screen. You can uninstall it and return to the stock launcher at any time.
Can I go back to the default Google TV launcher?
Yes, easily.
- Accessibility method: Simply uninstall the launcher or disable the “Override current launcher” setting.
- ADB method: Run these commands to re-enable the stock launcher:
adb shell pm enable com.google.android.apps.tv.launcherxandadb shell pm enable com.google.android.tungsten.setupwraith
Will my apps and settings be deleted?
No. Installing a new launcher does not affect your installed apps, saved passwords, or device settings. It only changes the visual interface of your home screen.
Do I need to root my device?
No. Neither method requires rooting your device. The Accessibility method works entirely within Android’s built-in features, and ADB commands work on stock, unrooted devices.
Which launcher is best for older/slower devices?
For older or slower devices, choose FLauncher or AT4K Launcher — they are the lightest and most responsive options.
Will this remove ads from streaming apps (Netflix, YouTube, etc.)?
No. This only removes ads from the Google TV home screen. Ads within individual streaming apps (like YouTube or Netflix) are not affected. For ad-free streaming, consider using a VPN to protect your privacy.
Will Google TV system updates break my custom launcher?
Possibly. Google occasionally pushes updates that reset launcher settings. If this happens, simply re-enable the “Override current launcher” setting. As of September 2026, the fix works for most users.
Can I install multiple launchers and switch between them?
Yes. You can install multiple launchers and switch between them by changing the default in settings or using the Accessibility override.
Is Projectivy Launcher worth paying for?
The free version is fully functional for most users. The $7.50 one-time Pro upgrade unlocks extra customizations for wallpapers, icons, and interface tweaks. Try the free version first — you can upgrade later if you want more features.
Does this work on all Google TV devices?
It works on most Google TV and Android TV devices, including:
- Chromecast with Google TV (4K and HD)
- Google TV Streamer
- NVIDIA Shield TV (Android TV)
- TCL, Hisense, Sony, and other Google TV smart TVs
- Xiaomi Mi Box / Stick
- Thomson, Nokia, and other Android TV boxes
For more device comparisons, see our Android TV vs Google TV guide.
Will the YouTube button on my remote stop working if I disable the stock launcher?
Yes. On Chromecast with Google TV devices, the dedicated YouTube button on the remote will stop working if you disable the default launcher using the ADB method. There is no easy workaround for this. Consider this before using the ADB method.
What’s the difference between Google TV and Android TV for launchers?
Google TV is a content-first interface built on top of Android TV, focusing on personalized recommendations. Android TV is more app-centric with a traditional layout. Both run the same apps and both support third-party launchers. However, Google TV’s content-first design makes launcher replacement more complex, which is why the Accessibility method is recommended. Learn more in our smart TV operating systems guide.
Safety & Legal Disclaimers
Is Replacing the Launcher Legal?
Yes — replacing your launcher is completely legal. You’re installing an app from the Google Play Store (or sideloading an open-source APK) and configuring your device’s settings. This does not violate any terms of service.
Security Considerations
- Download from trusted sources — Always install launchers from the official Google Play Store or verified GitHub repositories. File manager apps can help you manage sideloaded APKs safely.
- Open-source options — FLauncher and Arc Launcher are open-source, meaning their code is publicly auditable
- Avoid unknown APK sources — Only sideload from reputable sources like APKMirror
- Read permissions — Legitimate launchers only need Accessibility permission and storage access for wallpapers
Privacy Benefits
- No tracking — Third-party launchers don’t track your viewing habits
- No data collection — Unlike Google TV, custom launchers don’t collect data for ad targeting
- Your data stays yours — No recommendations based on your watch history
VPN Recommendation
While not required for launcher replacement, a VPN is recommended if you use third-party streaming add-ons or apps. Compare the best VPN providers to encrypt your connection and prevent ISP tracking.
Replacing the stock Google TV launcher is one of the most impactful upgrades you can make to your streaming experience. In under 10 minutes, you can transform a cluttered, ad-filled interface into a clean, fast, and privacy-respecting home screen that puts your apps front and center.
Quick Recap:
- Choose your launcher — Projectivy (best overall), Arc (Apple TV style), FLauncher (open-source), ATV Launcher Pro (Android TV power users), AT4K (lightweight), or Monet (Material You)
- Install from Play Store — or sideload from a trusted source
- Enable Accessibility — grant Accessibility permissions to your chosen launcher
- Override current launcher — enable this setting in the launcher’s General settings
- Optional: ADB method — for a more permanent solution, disable Google TV packages via ADB (but note the YouTube button and Quick Settings trade-offs)
- Enjoy — a faster, ad-free, cleaner Google TV experience
Remember: You can always uninstall the launcher and return to the stock Google TV interface at any time.