As the year comes to a close, a wave of nostalgia washes over many Android users reflecting on the apps that have shaped their digital experiences. Among the myriad of applications that have graced the platform, a select few have recently bid farewell, leaving behind a void that is hard to fill. Here are five notable Android apps that users will undoubtedly miss.
Originally launched as Read It Later in 2007, Pocket became an indispensable tool for users wanting to save articles for later reading. Its seamless integration across platforms allowed individuals to curate content without distraction, making it a staple in daily workflows. However, after Mozilla acquired Pocket in 2017, the app faced challenges, particularly with its integration into Firefox, which many users found cumbersome. The surprise announcement of Pocket’s shutdown in July 2025 left users scrambling for alternatives. While services like Raindrop.io have emerged as substitutes, the simplicity and functionality of Pocket remain sorely missed.
Omnivore
In the realm of read-it-later apps, Omnivore was once seen as a promising contender against Pocket and Instapaper. With features like PDF support, annotating capabilities, and a user-friendly interface, it quickly garnered a loyal following. However, its acquisition by ElevenLabs led to a shift in focus, ultimately resulting in the app’s demise at the end of 2024. Despite its potential as a self-hosted alternative to Pocket, Omnivore’s closure left users searching for new solutions, with Karakeep emerging as a possible frontrunner in the space.
Syncthing for Android
Syncthing provided a unique solution for file and folder synchronization across devices, making it a favorite among users who valued seamless integration. Unfortunately, the official Android app ceased updates in late 2024 due to challenges with Google Play’s publishing requirements. While the underlying technology continues to thrive through various forks, many users, accustomed to the official app, find themselves hesitant to transition to alternatives, prompting a reevaluation of their workflows.
Kiwi Browser
Kiwi Browser carved out a niche for itself by offering extension support, a rarity among Android browsers. Launched to cater to power users while remaining accessible to novices, it allowed users to enhance their browsing experience significantly. However, the project was archived in January 2025, with its features absorbed into Microsoft Edge Canary. While Edge has made strides since then, the absence of Kiwi’s unique offerings is still felt by many.
Nova Launcher
Perhaps the most impactful loss in 2025 is Nova Launcher, a pioneer in Android customization. Since its debut in 2012, it has empowered users to tailor their home screens and app drawers with unparalleled precision. Despite its legacy of innovation, Nova faced challenges after its acquisition by analytics company Branch in 2022, ultimately leading to its decline. The anticipated open-sourcing of its code never materialized, leaving a dedicated community without the beloved launcher they once cherished. Nevertheless, Nova’s influence on Android customization remains indelible, having paved the way for a diverse array of launchers available today.
