Google Pixel phones don't play well with third-party launchers, according to survey

If you’re a fan of customizing your Android experience with third-party launchers, you might want to think twice before picking up a Google Pixel. A recent survey by Smart Launcher reveals that Pixel devices are among the least compatible with custom launchers, often plagued by glitches and bugs.

Pixel devices rank low in compatibility

The survey results, shared by Smart Launcher, show that Google’s Pixel devices are at the bottom of the list for a smooth third-party launcher experience. This may come as a surprise, considering Pixel phones run “pure” Android and are often the first to receive Android updates. However, early updates sometimes introduce new bugs, which can disrupt the functionality of custom launchers. For example, Android 15, the latest version, has a known bug that causes launchers to freeze on Pixel devices, affecting user experience.

Xiaomi not far behind

Following Google, Xiaomi ranks second-to-last in the survey, primarily because it disables gesture navigation when a third-party launcher is in use. This restriction can be frustrating for users who rely on gestures for a seamless navigation experience, and it’s a feature limitation unique to Xiaomi among major Android brands.

Better experiences on Samsung, Motorola, and Nothing

On the other end of the spectrum, Samsung, Motorola, and Nothing phones stood out as the best options for launcher enthusiasts. Samsung and Motorola scored particularly well, with most users reporting a smooth experience with minimal issues. Nothing, the relatively new brand, also showed promising results, with only a few users reporting minor issues.

The survey suggests that if customization with third-party launchers is a priority for you, choosing a Samsung, Motorola, or Nothing device might be the best move.

Customization or compatibility?

For Android users who enjoy tweaking their interface with third-party launchers, compatibility is a key consideration. This survey highlights how different manufacturers handle third-party launcher support, with Google and Xiaomi needing the most improvement in this area. So, if you’re planning to install a custom launcher, keep these results in mind before choosing your next device.