====== Total Launcher Multi-Screen Guide ======
Total Launcher is arguably the most capable third-party launcher for multi-screen and foldable devices currently available. Unlike other launchers that simply stretch a single layout across screens, Total Launcher treats folded and unfolded states as completely separate workspaces.
In order for multi-screen users to take advantage of this feature both portrait //and// landscape screens must be created.
===== Key Features =====
^ Feature ^ Description ^
| **Independent Layouts** | Allows for completely different setups on the cover screen (folded) vs. the inner screen (unfolded). |
| **Orientation Awareness** | Can trigger specific layout changes based on Portrait vs. Landscape orientation, which is essential for square-ish inner displays. |
| **Z-Axis/Rotation** | Unlike grid-based launchers, Total Launcher allows overlapping widgets and free placement, useful for spanning gaps on dual-screen devices like the Surface Duo. |
===== Device Compatibility & Behavior =====
Total Launcher does not rely on a whitelist of specific devices; instead, it uses Android's `DisplayManager` callbacks to detect when the screen configuration changes. Below are the verified device categories and their specific behaviors.
==== Native Foldables (Book-Style) ====
=== • Samsung Galaxy Z Fold (1-6) ===
=== • Google Pixel Fold ===
=== • OnePlus Open ===
=== • Honor Magic V ===
These devices are natively supported via the configuration settings.
* **Behavior:** The launcher detects the "Folded" vs "Unfolded" state as a hardware event.
* **Setup:** Two distinct layouts are created. The launcher automatically switches between them when the hinge sensor triggers.
* **Known Quirks:** On some devices (like the Pixel Fold), rotating the device immediately after unfolding may cause a brief redraw delay as the launcher recalculates the grid.
==== Dual-Screen Devices (Hinged) ====
=== • Microsoft Surface Duo 1 & 2 ===
=== • LG V60/G8X (Dual Screen Case) ===
These devices are often treated by Android as two separate display panels masked as one large desktop.
* **Behavior:** Total Launcher treats the spanned dual-screens as one giant landscape canvas.
* **Setup Strategy:** The "hinge gap" must be manually calculated to place widgets accordingly.
* **Advantage:** Unlike stock launchers, Total Launcher allows placement of widgets //under// the hinge or create pixel-perfect gaps to avoid it.
==== Flip-Style Foldables (Clamshell) ====
=== • Samsung Galaxy Z Flip ===
=== • Motorola Razr ===
* **Behavior:** Generally, Total Launcher is used for the **inner** main screen only.
* **Cover Screen:** Most flip phones run a limited OS on the cover screen that blocks third-party launchers by default.
===== Configuration Guide =====
To enable multi-screen support, a specific foldable specific setting must be activated:
- Go to ''Launcher Options'' (Enter [[section1-2-e_beginners_basic_editing_steps#to_enter_edit_mode:|Edit Mode]] > ''Main menu'' > ''Launcher Options''
- Navigate to '' Advanced'' > ''Behavior''
- Toggle **ON**: ''Support foldable screen''
Once enabled, the setup process works by physically changing the device state:
- Fold the device. Customize the cover screen.
- Unfold the device. See a blank screen or a stretched version of your cover.
- Customize the unfolded screen.
> **Note:** Changes made to the inner screen **will not** affect the cover screen, and vice versa. They are treated as separate "Window" instances.
===== Advanced Tips =====
=== Persistent Taskbar ===
To simulate a desktop-style taskbar that only appears on the inner screen:
* Create a new **Window** object.
* Set it to ''Show on top''.
* In the Window options, set visibility rules so it only appears when the screen width is greater than a certain pixel count (or manually toggle it for the inner layout).
=== Surface Duo Specifics ===
For Surface Duo users, place a widget explicitly on the "Left" or "Right" side of the coordinates to prevent it from being cut off by the hinge. Use the **Margins** setting to create a "safe zone" in the center to avoid the hinge entirely.
===== Pros and Cons =====
**Pros**
* Unmatched customization for different form factors.
* Lightweight on resources compared to stock launchers.
* "Window" feature allows for pop-up widgets, saving screen real estate.
**Cons**
* Steep learning curve (high complexity).
* Minor redraw lag on some devices when switching from cover to inner screen.
* Android gesture navigation animations may be less fluid than stock.
====== Contribute to this Manual ======
Expansion of this section with device-specific tutorials and screenshots is desired. Owners of specific foldable devices (Z Fold, Pixel Fold, Duo) are encouraged to contribute.
**Methods of Contribution:**
* **Edit this page:** Verified setups can be added as a "Tutorial" subsection for specific device models.
* **Discussion:** Or leave your experience in the Discussion tab for this page and the Admin can incorporate it into the page.
* **Contact Admin:** If preferred notify the Admin directly about an experience for consideration of inclusion as official contents of this wiki.
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