Skip to main content

Using Third Party Launchers

Using a third-party launcher instead of the Esper Launcher or default Android launcher? You can set a third party launcher from a blueprint. 

Note: Devices not using the Esper Launcher may have limited access to device management features, such as layout customization.

Requirements: 

  • Android devices on Esper Agent v9.4.3188+

Setting the Launcher

Step 1: Adding the Launcher App

In Apps > Esper Android Apps, upload the launcher app as an APK. 

modal for uploading an app to the Esper console in the Esper Android Apps .png

Step 2: Setting Up the Blueprint

In a new or existing blueprint, set the launcher type to Android Launcher.

Then, add the launcher to the blueprint’s application list. Set the following: 

  • Launch on Start: Disabled 
  • Installation Rule: During Provisioning
  • App State: Show

an example of a launcher app in the blueprint's app list with the preceding settings (disbaled launch state, during provisioning rule, show state)

Step 3: Add the dpcParam to the Blueprint 

Enable the blueprint’s Esper Settings > Advanced Android Settings > Enable JSON. Then paste the JSON. 

Include the following: 

  • packageName: the launcher app’s package name. 
  • activityName: the launcher app’s activity name. Often MainActivity. 
{
    "dpcParams": [
        {
            "key": "setDefaultLauncher",
            "value": "{\"packageName\":\"com.app.packagename\",\"activityName\":\"com.app.launcher.activity.main.MainActivity\"}"
        }
    ]
}

an example of the dpc param in the console

Then save, publish, and converge the device to the blueprint. Ensure the converge is successful by checking a few devices’ Event Feeds.

Clearing the Launcher

In the blueprint’s Esper Settings > Advanced Android Settings > Enable JSON, replace the setDefaultLauncher key and value.

{
  "dpcParams": [
    {
      "key": "setDefaultLauncher",
      "value": "{\"clear\":true}"
    }
  ]
}

an example of the dpc param in the console

You can then optionally remove the launcher app from the blueprint’s app’s list.

Once the blueprint is converged, the device will launch using your specified third-party launcher. To switch launchers, update the dpcParam values and reconverge.

Featured content