Where Does Nova Launcher Store Backups on Android?
Nova Launcher writes .novabackup files where you choose, with live settings in private storage.
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Nova Launcher keeps the live home screen layout in private app storage. The portable piece is Nova Backup: a .novabackup file written to Documents or any folder you pick from backup settings. That file holds layout, icons, gestures, and most preferences.
Run a backup before launcher updates and ROM flashes. Widgets often need manual re-adding after restore since Android grants them per install. Keep the backup file in cloud drive for new phones.
Where Nova Launcher stores this, by platform
Documents (user chosen .novabackup files)
Create from Nova Settings Backup. Copy the file off device. Restore from the same screen on the new launcher install.
Frequently asked questions
How do I move Nova Launcher to a new phone?
Back up to a .novabackup file, copy it over, install Nova, and restore. Re-add widgets by hand and reset the default launcher prompt.
Does Nova Backup include widgets?
Layouts restore but widgets usually need re-adding due to Android permissions. Screenshot home screens first so rebuilds match.
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