Microsoft pushes new Launcher update for Surface Duo with a refreshed design

Surface Duo Launcher Refresh Dec Original Surface Duo with updated Microsoft Launcher. Source: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central

Back in late Oct, Microsoft paused updates for Surface Duo and Surface Duo 2's Launcher app via the Google Play Store. At the fourth dimension, it was speculated that perhaps Launcher's builds were being forked for some special Surface Duo features, but after learned it was likely due to some internal software effect that needed to be resolved.

Starting last dark, both Surface Duo and Surface Duo two are now back to getting their corresponding Launcher app updates via the Google Play Store (instead of monthly system updates). Additionally, the app now appears in search, whereas earlier, it did non while Microsoft resolved the ongoing issue.

Interestingly, Surface Duo's update is more of a large deal. It brings the slightly refreshed blueprint plant on Surface Duo ii with Android eleven, including updated Widgets in the Your Feed (Glance, News) sidebar and improved translucency. These updated designs more closely match Windows 11 with rounded corners and updated graphics. Likewise, the app drawer now matches Surface Duo two'south, with a new take hold of bar almost the top.

Not much has changed for Surface Duo 2 owners, though presumably there are always minor tweaks going on with each update.

The Google Play Store updates should employ for regular versions and those enrolled in the Microsoft Launcher beta plan. Hither is the total changelog for the beta version, which brings the new UI changes described above:

Launcher's feed and overall pattern were updated.
The News feed feel was enhanced.
The toggle between piece of work and personal apps was improved.
Additional filters are now available to improve searching.
Other known bugs were stock-still, and improvements were made.

Microsoft is poised to distribute the Android 11 update for original Surface Duo owners, though information technology is cut it down to the wire as information technology stated "by yr's cease" for the release. Indeed, updating Microsoft Launcher to friction match Surface Duo two's wait and feel is a necessary step in that process, so this may be a good sign that the update is imminent.

Microsoft Launcher

This Android launcher has a make clean design that works well with several Microsoft services, including Microsoft To Do and Microsoft 365. The latest update brings a couple of handy new features, several bug fixes, and some functioning improvements.

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