How to install another shell on Android: from the launcher to custom firmware

Why do users change the Android shell and what is it gives

The standard Android interface, even taking into account proprietary shells from Samsung, Xiaomi or Google, does not always suit smartphone owners. Some want more customization options, some lack performance, and some are simply tired of the monotony. Replacing the shell is a way to radically change the appearance and functionality of the device without buying a new gadget.

In practice, “installing another shell” means two fundamentally different approaches: use alternative launcher (an application that changes only the appearance) or installation custom firmware (complete replacement of system software). The first method is safe and reversible, the second requires unlocking the bootloader, voiding the warranty and the risk of bricking the device. The choice depends on your goals: if you only need visual changes, the launcher will suffice; if you want complete control over the system, you will have to deal with the firmware.

In this article we will analyze both options, their pros and cons, and also give step-by-step guide for beginners. Spoiler: 90% of users just need to change the launcher - it’s fast, free and does not require technical skills.

Option 1: Installing an alternative launcher (without root and risks)

Launcher is an application that is responsible for displaying desktop, application menu and transitions between screens. Replacing it does not affect system files, so this method is suitable even for beginners. Popular launchers: Nova Launcher, Microsoft Launcher, Action Launcher and Lawnchair (open source).

To install a new launcher:

• 📱 Open Google Play and find the launcher you like (for example, Nova Launcher).
• 📥 Install the application as usual - no additional permissions will be required.
• 🔧 After installation, press the button Home (or swipe up from the bottom edge of the screen). The system will prompt you to select the default launcher.
• ✅ Select a new launcher and confirm your choice. Done - the interface has changed!

Advantages of this method:

• ⚡ Instant results - changes are applied immediately after installation.
• 🔄 Reversibility — you can return to the standard launcher at any time.
• 🛡️ Security —no need to unlock the bootloader or root access.
• 🎨 Flexibility —most launchers support themes, icon packs and gestures.

However, launchers also have limitations. They cannot:

• 🚫 Change system fonts or animations (this is only possible through the firmware).
• 🚫 Optimize performance at the kernel level (launchers do not affect the speed of the processor).
• 🚫 Change system applications (for example, replace Settings or Phone).

Option 2: Installing custom firmware (for advanced users)

If there are not enough launchers, you can go further and install custom firmware a modified version of Android created by enthusiasts. Popular. firmware: LineageOS, Pixel Experience, Paranoid Android i Resurrection Remix. They offer:

• 🆕 More recent versions of Android for older devices.
• 🛠️ Advanced interface settings and performance.
• 🗑️ Lack of bloatware (pre-installed unnecessary applications).
• 🔒 Improved privacy (for example, in GrapheneOS).

But there are also serious disadvantages:

• ⚠️ Loss of warranty —unlocking the bootloader will void the warranty of most manufacturers.
• 💥 Risk of “bricking” —wrong actions can make the device inoperable.
• 🔌 Compatibility problems —some functions (for example, Samsung Pay or cameras on Xiaomi) may stop working.
• 🔄 Regular updates —custom firmware requires manual updating.

What is "bricking"?

This is a condition in which the device stops turning on or booting due to damage to system files. In most cases, the problem is solved by flashing it via Fastboot or ODIN (for Samsung), but sometimes soldering equipment is required.

If you do decided, here is the general algorithm of actions:

1. 🔓 Unlock the bootloader via fastboot oem unlock.
2. 📥 Download the firmware and GApps (Google services, if needed) from the official website (for example, lineageos.org).
3. 🛠️ Install custom recovery (TWRP or OrangeFox).
4. 🔄 Make a backup of the current system via recovery.
5. 📲 Flash new firmware and GApps via recovery.
6. 🔧 Configure the system after the first boot.

⚠️ Attention: The process of unlocking the bootloader erases all data from the device. In addition, some manufacturers (for example, Huawei or Xiaomi) require a special unlock code that can be linked to your account.

Comparison of launchers and custom firmware: what to choose

To decide which method is right for you, let’s compare them according to key parameters:

Criteria	Alternative launcher	Custom firmware
Installation complexity	⭐ (installation as a regular application)	⭐⭐⭐⭐ (requires unlocking the bootloader and firmware)
Impact on warranty	❌ No	✅ Void
Changes in the system	Interface only (desktop, application menu)	Complete software replacement, including the kernel and drivers
Performance	Does not affect (can add lags if optimization is poor)	Can improve or worsen (depending on the firmware)
Reversibility	✅ Can be deleted at any time	⚠️ Requires flashing to stock version

Custom firmware is only justified for older devices (released 3+ years ago) that no longer receive updates from the manufacturer, or for enthusiasts who need unique features (for example, support for MicroG instead of Google services). In all other cases, launchers cover 99% of user needs.

Top 5 launchers for Android in 2026

If you have chosen the launcher installation route, here are the five best solutions with their key features:

1. Nova Launcher

   🔹 Platform: Android 5.0+
   

   🔹 Features: maximum customization (gestures, icons, folders), theme support, lightweight.
   

   🔹 Cons: some functions are paid (Prime version).

2. Lawnchair

   🔹 Platform: Android 8.0+
   

   🔹 Features: open source code, style Pixel Launcher, support Android 12+ chips.
   

   🔹 Cons: sometimes there are bugs on non-standard firmware.

3. Microsoft Launcher

   🔹 Platform: Android 7.0+
   

   🔹 Features: integration with Windows (continued on PC), calendar widget, minimalistic design.
   

   🔹 Cons: requires a Microsoft account for synchronization.

4. Action Launcher

   🔹 Platform: Android 6.0+
   

   🔹 Features: unique gestures (Quickpage, Shutters), adaptive icons, support Material You.
   

   🔹 Cons: plugins may be slow on weak devices.

5. Hyperion Launcher

   🔹 Platform: Android 9.0+
   

   🔹 Features: dynamic colors, built-in icon packs, support Android 13.
   

   🔹 Cons: closed source code, less frequently updated.

For most users, the optimal choice would be Nova Launcher (for maximum customization) or Lawnchair (for a minimalist style interface Pixel). If integration with the ecosystem is important Microsoft, the logical choice is Microsoft Launcher.

Step-by-step guide for installing custom firmware (using the example of LineageOS)

If you decide to go further and install custom firmware, let's look at the process using an example LineageOS —one of the most stable and popular firmware. Warning: the following actions may lead to data loss or device failure. Do everything at your own peril and risk!

Step 1: Preparing the device

• 📱 Make a full backup of your data (photos, contacts, messages) on your PC or cloud.
• 🔋 Charge your phone at least by 70%.
• 🔧 Turn on USB Debugging in Settings → About phone → Build number (press 7 times, then return to Settings → System → For developers).
• 📥 Install drivers ADB and Fastboot on PC (official source).

Step 2: Unlocking the bootloader

• 🔓 Connect your phone to the PC and run the command:

adb reboot bootloader

• 🔑 In mode fastboot enter:

fastboot flashing unlock

• ⚠️ Confirm on your phone unlocking (this will erase all data!).

Step 3: Installing custom recovery

• 📥 Download TWRP for your model from the official website (twrp.me).
• 📲 Flash recovery:

fastboot flash recovery twrp-3.7.0-1-mido.img

• 🔄 Reboot into recovery:

fastboot reboot recovery

Step 4: LineageOS firmware

• 📥 Download the firmware LineageOS i GApps (for example, Open GApps in option pico).
• 📁 Transfer files to your phone via MTP in recovery.
• 🧹 In TWRP execute Wipe → Advanced Wipe (check Dalvik, Cache, System, Data).
• 📲 Install the firmware, then GApps:

Install → select file → Swipe to Confirm Flash

Step 5: First boot

• 🔄 Reboot into the system (Reboot → System).
• ⏳ The first boot may take 10-15 minutes - do not interrupt the process!
• 🔧 After booting, configure the system as a new device.

⚠️ Attention: On some devices (for example, Samsung s Exynos or Xiaomi on MediaTek) the firmware process may differ. Always look for instructions specifically for your model on the forum XDA Developers or 4PDA.

Frequent problems and their solutions

Even if you carefully follow the instructions, difficulties may arise. Here are the most common of them and ways to solve them:

• 🚨 The phone does not turn on after flashing the firmware ("bootloop").

  Solution: Try to flash the firmware again via recovery. If that doesn't help, flash the stock firmware. via Fastboot or ODIN (for Samsung).

• 📵 The mobile network or Wi-Fi does not work.

  Solution: Make sure that the firmware supports your device model. Sometimes the firmware of another radio modification helps (modem).

• 🔋 Battery drains quickly.

  Solution: Calibrate the battery (discharge to 0%, then charge to 100% without interruption) or try a different core (kernel).

• 🔊 Speakers or microphone do not work.

  Solution: Check whether this is due to the lack of proprietary drivers. Sometimes installing additional patches helps.

• 🛑 Applications crash (for example, banking).

  Solution: Install Magisk and enable MagiskHide to mask root. Some applications (for example, SberBank Online) can block work on custom firmware.

If the problem cannot be solved, contact the thematic forum (for example, XDA or 4PDA) indicating:

• Device models.
• Firmware versions.
• Logs errors (can be obtained via adb logcat).

FAQ: Answers to popular questions

Is it possible to install custom firmware without unlocking the bootloader?

No, unlocking the bootloader is a mandatory step for installing custom firmware. Without this, the system simply will not allow you to replace system files. Exceptions are some firmware for devices with an already unlocked bootloader (for example Google Pixel), but this is rare.

How to return the standard shell after installing the launcher?

Open Settings → Applications, find the installed launcher and click Disable or Delete. After this, the system will prompt you to select the default launcher - select the standard one. If the launcher was system (for example, on Xiaomi), you may need to reset the settings.

Which devices are best suited for custom firmware?

The most supported devices are flagships Google Pixel, OnePlus, Xiaomi (series Redmi Note i POCO, as well as some models Samsung (for example, line Galaxy S on Snapdragon). data-i="287">problems often arise due to closed drivers. MediaTek or Exynos Problems often arise due to closed drivers.

Is it possible to install MIUI on a non-Xiaomi phone?

Technically possible, but highly not recommended. MIUI heavily tailored to hardware Xiaomiso on other devices there will be problems with drivers (camera, sensors, mobile network). In addition, Xiaomi officially prohibits porting its firmware.

How to update custom firmware?

Most firmwares (for example, LineageOS) support OTA updates via built-in menu Settings → System → Updates. If there is no such option, download the new version of the firmware and install it via recovery (usually a simple Dirty Flash installation over the old version without a wipe is enough).