Amazon has blacklisted the updated Launcher Manager app 1.1.8 for taking control of Firestick/Fire TV remote buttons. The original Launcher Manager for Fire TV app was previously banned, but recently the developers introduced version 1.1.8, igniting the app once again. The app, designed to customize the remote buttons on Fire TV devices, was blocked from operating properly on all Amazon Fire TV systems. When users attempted to open the app, they were met with the message, “Cannot Open App.”
The developer of the new Launcher Manager app 1.1.8 has already released an update that changes the package name and modifies other blacklisting files.
Here are some quotes from the developer SweenWolf from the XDA Developers forum:
Since the original package is now flagged, I’ve changed the package name from “com.wolf.lm” to “com.wolf.lm1.”
I’ll try to change some static codes of lm so app cloner will work if lm survives these blocks.
Amazon can take many actions to prevent LM from working, and most of them are unstoppable, but I prefer not to provide ideas to anyone.
Not only that, I managed to disable adepfos app which handles blacklisting according to the notifications I receive whenever it gets removed from my device. I’m not sure if rebooting is the reason it gets removed by this app, but I’ll see if it lasts for 1 day. adb shell pm disable-user com.amazon.adep
How to Install Updated Launcher Manager 1.1.8
We have the new updated app available for quick installation in our TROYPOINT Toolbox.
The TROYPOINT Toolbox provides a quick way to install apps on Fire TV/Android TV that are not available through official app stores on those devices.
Launcher Manager App: What It Does
The Launcher Manager app enables users to customize the remote buttons on Fire TV devices to launch any app or function. For instance, users can assign the “home” button to launch a third-party launcher like Wolf. Third-party launchers are highly popular as they eliminate the annoying ads for streaming services that most users do not utilize. The new release of Launcher Manager 1.1.8 also facilitates the mapping of Netflix, Prime Video, Disney+, and Hulu buttons.
Amazon’s Reasoning for Banning the App
Amazon states that the Launcher Manager app violates their guidelines by “interfering with the Fire TV user experience.” Amazon mentions that the app seizes control of the remote buttons, potentially causing confusion among users and resulting in a subpar experience.
Implications for Fire TV Users
This situation will persist as a back-and-forth between Amazon and the developer of the Launcher Manager 1.1.8 app. A few weeks ago, TROYPOINT disclosed that it would recommend Android TV devices due to these continual restrictions by the Amazon Fire TV division.
Regrettably, Amazon has shut down various “hacks” over the past years, and from recent encounters, it seems they are resolute in their stance.
Alternatives to Launcher Manager
While Launcher Manager offers a convenient method to customize the Fire TV remote and use a third-party launcher, other options remain available. Users can still employ third-party launchers by utilizing a technique involving an application named Launch on Boot.
Our guide on Wolf Launcher presents two ways to use a third-party launcher. If the new Launcher Manager 1.1.8 is permanently banned, we have another approach by using Launch on Boot.
Utilize Wolf Launcher on Firestick / Fire TV – 2 Methods
Share your thoughts on the ban of Launcher Manager 1.1.8 and the developer’s new workaround in the comments below.
Are you considering transitioning to an Android TV device?