APUS Launcher: Themes Hide Apps Launcher App

Tiny launcher with smart sorting and handy notifications

APUS Launcher: Themes Hide Apps Launcher App aims to strip clutter from your home screen and app drawer, focusing on speed of access rather than deep tinkering. Its headline perk is size: the install weighs in at under 3 MB, which makes it appealing for devices with limited storage.

Once active, APUS reorganizes your layout so apps and contacts are easier to find, and its search is tuned to surface what you need quickly. It also brings on-screen alerts for calls, SMS, WhatsApp, and Gmail, keeping key notifications visible without opening each app. A Free Swipe shortcut lets you peek at recently opened apps from anywhere, and APUS Newsfeed serves a curated stream of trending news and games. Be aware that recommendations and suggested apps inside the launcher are not purely editorial, and some items are clearly there to drive installs.

Customization is the clear trade-off. Options are sparse, and you cannot remove certain folders or app icons created by the launcher, which may frustrate anyone who likes a meticulously tailored setup. The included APUS Boost claims to accelerate performance, though its impact is debatable, and the “Cool the heating phone quickly” feature raises questions about how it achieves its effect, since aggressive throttling could have side effects.

Who is it for? If you want a small, straightforward launcher that prioritizes quick access, sorting, and a unified search, it fits the bill. Owners of newer devices on Jelly Bean 4.3 or Lollipop 5.0 and up may find little to gain over stock options that already emphasize polish and customization. For older hardware, especially those still on Ice Cream Sandwich 4.0.3, APUS can be a practical, lightweight alternative, provided you accept limited control over visuals and folders along with the presence of promoted content.