Jun 14, 2024 1 min read

New update lets you set EmulationStation-DE as default Android-launcher

A new update for EmulationStation-DE adds the ability to set the app as Android-home app, and brings many new emulators, amongst other changes.

New update lets you set EmulationStation-DE as default Android-launcher

A new update for EmulationStation-DE adds the ability to set the app as Android-home app, and brings many new emulators, amongst other changes.

The team behind EmulationStation-DE (ES-DE) released a new update for their Android app allowing you to set ES-DE as the Android home-app/launcher. This way, whenever you boot the device or leave a game, it will automatically boot back to ES-DE.

The feature is still considered experimental, so the team recommends users to read the official documentation regarding any possible issues.

This is, however, not the only change of ES-DE 3.0.3-26 for Android. It also adds support for new systems bringing the Android much closer to the desktop counterparts. You can read the changelog here.


In my recent review of the Odin2 Mini, I wrote that after properly setting up the device, it has quickly become one of my favourite ways to play games. One of the reasons is ES-DE, as it makes the experience on Android simply much better. In fact, I wouldn't use an Android device without ES-DE.

Also, one little tip: you can add Android apps to EmulationStation-DE thanks to a third-party project called ES AppLauncher. That way you'll get a little menu for Android apps and games like in the header image above.


EmulationStation-DE for Android is available through Patreon. It is a one-time purchase, as you can cancel your subscription afterwards but still receive updates. Though, you can naturally keep it up, if you'd like to support the developer.

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