mashable.com
If you’re bored with your Android phone’s default design, downloading a launcher is a great (and usually free) way to give your home screen an instant upgrade.
Following the official release of Apple’s iOS 7, app developers have raced to create launchers to specifically mimic the iPhone’s sleek redesign. If you want to combine the iOS 7 layout with Android’s functionality, consider downloading a launcher to transform your device.
Unfortunately, ads support some of the free launchers, and nothing ruins the illusion quite like a push notification that screams, “Free iPads Now!” To find out more about whether the app compromises your phone’s functionality in any way, be sure to peruse the user reviews in Google Play
1. Espier Launcher
Espier Launcher is one of the most frequently recommended apps that can give your Android’s interface the look and feel of an iPhone. The icons are remarkably similar to the iPhone’s, and their sizes, layout and text are customizable. You can also create folders and swipe to access toolbars. Widgets and shortcuts are still functional, which effectively merge the iPhone’s appearance with Android’s extra features.
Espier just released an iOS 7 theme that’s already getting rave reviews.
2. Hi Launcher iOS 7 Theme
Hi Dev Studio has released a new iOS 7 theme to accompany its well-received iPhone 5 launcher, and we found it pretty convincing.
You’ll have to get Hi Launcher first and download the new theme separately.
3. jbOS7
Released in a post on MyColorScreen.com, jbOS7 will make your homescreen and lock screen look like the iOS 7, but includes two uniquely designed pages for the Weather and Calendar apps (shown above). It’s available as a Dropbox download and is optimized for the Samsung Galaxy S3.
The app uses Nova Launcher, so be sure to download that first.
4. Fake iPhone 5
Not a fan of iOS 7? You’re not the only one. Keep it classic with Fake iPhone 5, which can mimic both the iPhone 5 and the 4S. According to the developer, this app works best with the Samsung Galaxy series.
Keep in mind that not all icons are functional; Passbook, for example, does not have an Android counterpart, so clicking on that icon will redirect to an ad.
The same developer also offers iLauncher, a slightly less convincing iOS 7 imitator.
5. iOS 7 Lockscreen Parallax HD
iOS 7 Lockscreen Parallax HD provides a nearly flawless imitation of iOS 7’s gorgeous parallax lock screen, complete with Control Center toolbar.
This will only change your phone’s lock screen, so combine it with another launcher to get the full iOS 7 effect.
6. iOS 7 Live Wallpaper
iOS 7 features a number of dynamic wallpapers that resemble floating particles. Some Android devices already come with animated wallpaper options, but if you prefer Apple’s choices, iOS 7 Live Wallpaper allows you to download four backgrounds similar to those offered in iOS 7.
