Design your app's launching experience with care, because this is the first thing users encounter.

When launching your app, keep the following principles in mind.

## Optimize performance

Invest in the performance of your app, as it can be uncomfortable to keep the wrist up while waiting for content to load.

## Indicate activity

Reassuring users that the system is actively working on their requests can increase their tolerance for delays.

## Build gradually

Gradually build content as it becomes available. This can be done in the following ways.

### Display static elements

Start with static elements such as text elements, actionable buttons, and placeholder UI first, while the rest of the content loads.  
![](https://developer.android.com/static/wear/images/design/launch_3.png)  
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### Do

Show static elements while other content is loading.  
![](https://developer.android.com/static/wear/images/design/launch_1.png)  
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### Don't

Show dynamic elements, because the layout, shape, or format of the content can be unpredictable.

### Use spinners with caution

Indeterminate loading spinners can cause latency issues. Instead show users static text or a placeholder image to indicate activity is happening.  
![](https://developer.android.com/static/wear/images/design/no_spinners.png)  
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### Do

Show static text to indicate the action that is happening.

### Prioritize visual feedback

When users perform an action, give them visual feedback instantly. This builds confidence that the action has happened. For simple actions like tapping a button, this can be on-touch ripple feedback. For more complex actions like changing the volume of music on the phone, this can be showing the volume indicator before the volume has been changed.  
![](https://developer.android.com/static/wear/images/design/show_feedback.png)  
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### Do

Show visual feedback first when the system needs to perform an action.

## Branded launch

Display the app icon centrally during app starts, so users see the app icon first. This improves brand recognition and is one way to show progress. Use a black window background with the app icon. The app icon must be a 48x48dp circular icon that is positioned in the center of the watch face. The splash screen icon must match the app launcher icon. Learn more about how to[add a splash screen](https://developer.android.com/training/wearables/apps/splash-screen).  
![](https://developer.android.com/static/wear/images/design/launch_2.png)  
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### Do

Use a black window background with a circular 48x48dp icon.