Epic Games has released a public preview of its redesigned Launcher, which the company describes as having been developed using AI-assisted coding. General Manager Martin Keely stated that the team rebuilt the application from scratch using a new technology stack, aiming to replicate existing functionality without reusing legacy code.
The new Launcher supports Windows, Mac, and an upcoming Linux version. Epic claims the application offers faster cold start times compared to its predecessor and Steam. During internal testing, the new version demonstrated a faster transition from the system tray to the library screen, although the measured difference was approximately 0.06 seconds.
The preview version currently lacks several features found in the legacy application, including specific social tools and account management options. Epic is working toward feature parity and has included new additions such as a Recent Games list and a centralized downloads hub for monitoring network activity.
The company previously announced the storefront rearchitecture and private beta during an Unreal Fest presentation in June, where it projected a fivefold increase in cold start speeds. Users are encouraged to report bugs through a feedback form, as the current build is noted to be light on features.
This development follows a broader shift at Epic Games toward an AI-first development model. CEO Tim Sweeney confirmed that the company is retooling its workflows to leverage AI for increased development capacity across its teams, including for upcoming projects based on Star Wars and Marvel intellectual properties.
