Unlocking Android 15’s Private Space with Nova Launcher: A Step-by-Step Guide

Unlocking Android 15’s Private Space with Nova Launcher: A Step-by-Step Guide

Android 15 introduced the Private Space feature, a secure area for sensitive apps and data. While this feature works seamlessly with the Google Pixel Launcher as the default, Nova Launcher doesn’t officially support it—yet.

But don’t worry! With a few tweaks, you can use Private Space while keeping Nova Launcher as your default. Let’s dive into the steps!

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Step 1: Set Up Android Private Space

1. Open Settings and navigate to Security & Privacy.
2. Under “Privacy,” tap Private Space.
3. Authenticate with your device’s screen lock. (If you don’t have one, you’ll need to set it up first.)
4. Tap Set up, then Got it.
5. (Optional) Add a different Google Account for Private Space for enhanced security.
6. Set up a new lock:
   • To use your current screen lock, tap Use device screen lock.
   • To choose a different lock, tap Choose new lock, authenticate, and follow the prompts.
7. Once complete, tap Done.

Helpful Tip: For detailed guidance, check Google’s support article here.

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Step 2: Add a Shortcut to Launch Pixel Launcher

To access Private Space, we’ll create a shortcut to the Pixel Launcher.

1. On the Nova Launcher Home Screen, long-press any empty area to open widget settings.
2. Select the Nova Launcher dropdown menu.
3. Long-press Activity and drag it to the Home Screen.
4. Scroll down and find Pixel Launcher.
5. Select Pixel Launcher (.NexusLauncherActivity) to create the shortcut.

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Step 3: Add a Shortcut for Security & Privacy

Private Space requires unlocking through Security & Privacy, so let’s set that up.

1. On the Nova Launcher Home Screen, long-press an empty area to open widget settings.
2. Select the Nova Launcher dropdown menu.
3. Long-press Activity and drag it to the Home Screen.
4. Scroll down to Settings and choose Security (.Settings$SecurityDashboardActivity).

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Step 4: Seamlessly Switch Between Pixel Launcher and Nova Launcher

To toggle between launchers:

1. Open the Pixel Launcher shortcut created in Step 2.
2. Drag the Nova Launcher icon from the Pixel Launcher’s All Apps menu to the Home Screen.
3. Tap the icon to switch back to Nova Launcher anytime.

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How to Use Private Space with Nova Launcher

1. Tap the Security & Privacy shortcut created in Step 3.
2. Open Private Space and authenticate. (You can enable Private Space locking when locking your phone.)
3. Return to the Nova Launcher Home Screen.
4. Open the Pixel Launcher shortcut and access All Apps.
5. Scroll to the bottom to use your Private Space apps.

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By following these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of Android 15’s Private Space without giving up the customization and flexibility of Nova Launcher. 🎉