A free, highly customizable Launchpad replacement for macOS 26+ that restores classic app organization and management.
LaunchNext is a free, open-source application launcher for macOS 26+ that restores the classic Launchpad experience Apple removed in macOS Tahoe. It solves the problem of lost app organization capabilities by providing full customization, folder management, and drag-and-drop functionality that the new system interface lacks. The project reads directly from the system's Launchpad database to perfectly recreate users' existing layouts.
macOS users running version 26 (Tahoe) or later who miss the classic Launchpad interface and want full control over app organization and visual customization. This includes power users who rely on folder management and those frustrated by Apple's removal of customization options.
Developers choose LaunchNext because it's the only open-source solution that directly imports existing Launchpad layouts while offering extensive customization options missing in macOS Tahoe. Unlike workarounds or alternative launchers, it specifically replicates the exact Launchpad experience with native database integration and multi-language support.
Bring your Launchpad back in MacOS26+ ,highly customizable, powerful, free.
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Directly reads the native macOS Launchpad SQLite database to perfectly recreate existing folders and app positions with one click, as highlighted in the README, eliminating manual reorganization.
Restores the classic drag-and-drop interface and folder management that Apple removed, functioning exactly like the original Launchpad with full visual customization.
Offers custom icon sizes, hideable labels, and multiple display modes like Compact and Fullscreen, allowing users to tailor the visual experience to their preferences.
Includes CLI/TUI support for automation, hot corner activation, and experimental native gestures, catering to advanced workflows and multi-monitor setups.
Lacks an Apple developer certificate, requiring users to run a Terminal command to remove quarantine flags, which adds complexity and may intimidate non-technical users.
Only supports macOS 26 (Tahoe) and later, excluding users on older versions who might want similar functionality, as noted in the requirements.
Features like gesture support rely on third-party libraries such as OpenMultitouchSupport, which are labeled as experimental and may introduce stability or compatibility issues.