Microsoft Launcher has begun rolling out its second major update since the app’s v5 launch on the Google Play Store, bringing the beta to version 5.2 to those who wish to preview the update ahead of its official release. The app’s development head Gordon Lin took to the app’s Google+ community to give users the full changelog of the update, which includes UI enhancements to give them app improved design consistency and ease of use especially on larger-screened devices.
These changes include an option to disable full screened folders as seen in the image above, and improvements to the font size so that it now reflects the phone’s system settings. Additionally, the launcher’s Cortana integration will now only be able to access calls and messages when set as the phone’s default assistant due to a policy change on the Play Store, which could disappoint users of the dedicated Cortana app. Here’s the full list of changes:
– Non-full screen folders for easier one-handed use and large-screen devices
– Microsoft Rewards daily deal card now allows you to earn Rewards points for using Microsoft Launcher and completing other tasks!
– Long-press shortcuts now work on home screen icons even when the home screen is locked.
– Microsoft Launcher no longer asks for Calls/SMS permissions by default per Google Play Store policies.
– Customers can now send a CPU profile through “Contact Us” in Settings in case of device performance issues
– Adaptive font- Launcher font size will now respect the system font size
If you’re interesting in previewing the update, Lin points out that anyone can do this simply by heading to the app’s beta testing page on Google Play, and signing up to ‘Become a tester.” Signing up give users early access to the launcher’s updates, bringing new features to them ahead of everyone else.
