androidtv.tips
Home Screen Customization Verified: 2026-06-18

Custom Launchers: Reclaim Your TV From Intrusive Ads

Modern stock Google TV and Android TV home screens allocate over 60% of your display space to autoplaying video trailers, sponsored commercial banners, and recommended apps you don't subscribe to. A lightweight custom launcher strips all ads, loads instantly, and frees up system RAM.

Top Recommendation Free + Premium

Projectivy Launcher

Developed by Spocky • Available directly in Google Play

The undisputed king of modern Android TV launchers. Features customizable dynamic categories, Reddit/Unsplash 4K backdrop wallpapers, parental controls, and a built-in accessibility service to override the Home button without root or ADB debugging.

  • ✓ Zero built-in advertisements
  • ✓ Customizable app grid icon sizes and row counts
  • ✓ Built-in calibration patterns for TV contrast & color
FOSS Alternative 100% Free / Open Source

FLauncher

Built with Flutter • Available on Google Play & F-Droid

For users who want absolute simplicity. FLauncher is an ultra-minimalist app drawer with custom category groupings. It consumes practically zero background memory, making it an ideal choice for older 1GB–1.5GB RAM streaming dongles.

  • ✓ 100% open-source Flutter codebase
  • ✓ Manual drag-and-drop category sorting
  • ✓ Custom background wallpaper support

How to Set Projectivy as Your Default Launcher (No PC Needed)

  1. Install Projectivy Launcher from the Google Play Store on your device.
  2. Open Projectivy, click the Gear icon (Settings) on the top right.
  3. Scroll down to General Settings.
  4. Enable "Override current launcher".
  5. You will be prompted to grant the Accessibility Service permission. Click Continue, find Projectivy in the list, and turn it ON.
  6. Press the Home button on your remote — your device will now instantly return to your clean Projectivy interface every time!