For over a decade, Nova Launcher was the gold standard for ad-free, privacy-focused customization. However, following the departure of founder Kevin Barry in late 2025 and the subsequent sale to Instabridge, the app is pivoting toward monetization.
The v8.2.4 Update: Trackers Discovered
Within 24 hours of the acquisition announcement, technical analysts and users discovered that the latest update (v8.2.4) already includes the infrastructure for advertisements.
- Ad SDKs: Decompiled versions of the app reveal embedded code for Facebook Ads and Google AdMob.
- New Permissions: The update requests new permissions related to Advertising IDs and attribution tracking.
- App Drawer Ads: Some users on Reddit and Hacker News have already reported seeing “suggested” content or ad banners appearing within the app drawer.
What This Means for Users
| Tier | Impact of Acquisition |
| Nova Free | Will include ads and tracking to support ongoing maintenance. |
| Nova Prime | Remains ad-free. Instabridge has pledged to honor all existing lifetime purchases. |
| Data Privacy | Instabridge claims data collection will be “minimal and purpose-driven,” though the inclusion of Facebook trackers has raised skepticism. |
| Open Source | While the original founder hoped to open-source the project, Instabridge says it is only “actively evaluating” this possibility. |
The New Stewardship: Who is Instabridge?
Instabridge is primarily known for its global Wi-Fi sharing map and eSIM services. The company’s decision to buy a home-screen launcher is seen by industry analysts as a move to capture top-level user data and provide a platform for its other connectivity products.
“Our job is not to reinvent Nova overnight. Our job is to be responsible owners. Nova needs a sustainable business model to support ongoing development… we are evaluating ad-based options for the free version.” — Instabridge Official Statement, Jan 2026
The Community Backlash
The response from longtime fans has been largely negative, with many calling the move a “betrayal” of Nova’s lightweight, utility-first legacy. Critics point out that the swift inclusion of trackers—before any significant feature updates—suggests a focus on data harvesting over product improvement.
Conclusion: A Fork in the Road
For users who find ads in their home screen unacceptable, the 2026 acquisition marks a time to look for alternatives like Lawnchair or Niagara Launcher. However, for those willing to pay the $3.99 for Nova Prime, Instabridge promises that the “core experience” will remain intact and actively maintained for modern Android versions.
