When Google announced the Nexus 5 back in December it came shipped with their own launcher called the Google Experience Launcher. Since then the launcher name has been changed to Google Now Launcher and it’s available for anyone to use on the Google Play Store (Google Now Launcher). Two of the big features is the ability to start a Google search on any home screen by saying “Okay Google”. The second feature was having the Google Now screen be the left most swipe screen. I use that screen a lot since I have found Google Now to be very useful and it continues to expand the number of possible cards. But unlike other launchers that you can install from the Play Store there are limits as well. Two of the biggest limits is that you cannot change the grid size or apply icon packs. But as always with Android there is a way and we’re going to cover how to apply icon packs.
The first thing to know is that this method will require root access for it to work. If you have a Nexus 5 then root is very easy and you can head over to this XDA tutorial to root your device. If you have another device then find your appropriate root method. Next you’ll need the Xposed installer app which is free and you can find more info and download at this link. Once you have Xposed installed be sure to activate the framework before continuing. Next you’ll need to grab the Unicon app from the Play Store. This is a paid app but well worth the small price for the great customization that you will get. Install the app and go through the setup. You’ll also need to go into Xposed app and activate the Unicon module.
Once that’s complete now you just need to find your favorite icon pack and install it. Then go into the Unicon app and apply your desired icons. What’s great is that the icon pack will apply through out your whole device and not just on the home screen. You can use the icon pack from almost any of the other launchers listed in the Play Store. I’m currently using the Rounded Up and Voxel icon pack. There are plenty of free and paid icon packs in the Play Store. Simply search for “icon pack” in the Play Store or on the web. If you have any questions be sure to leave a comment below.
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