LaunchNext

LaunchNext is the most feature-complete and best-performing open-source, free macOS Launchpad replacement.

Download

• Releases: Download LaunchNext
• Project: LaunchNext repository

Optional Homebrew install, if you already use Homebrew:

brew tap RoversX/homebrew-tap
brew install --cask launchnext

Screenshots

Why LaunchNext matters

LaunchNext exists to bring back a fully customizable launcher workflow on modern macOS:

• Native Launchpad workflow changed in macOS Tahoe.
• Default alternatives are less flexible for personal app organization.
• LaunchNext restores drag-and-drop layout control, folder workflows, and fast navigation.

What LaunchNext delivers

• One-click import from your old Launchpad layout and folders
• Classic Launchpad-style interaction model
• Multi-language support
• Hide icon labels when needed
• Adjustable icon sizing and folder layout modes
• Core Animation grid and folder rendering for smoother large layouts
• Folder management with drag-and-drop organization
• Right-click app and folder actions for Finder, path copy, hiding, rename, dissolve, and uninstall workflows
• Dock drag handoff, Hot Corner, and configurable experimental trackpad gestures
• Fuzzy search, keyboard navigation, and Return-to-open search results
• Built-in updater with in-app Markdown release notes
• CLI and TUI workflow for power users, automation, and AI agents

Requirements

• macOS 26 (Tahoe) or later
• Apple Silicon or Intel
• Xcode 26 (for source builds)

Installation notes

Download the app from Releases first. This is the most direct path for most users.

If macOS blocks startup (common for unsigned apps):

sudo xattr -r -d com.apple.quarantine /Applications/LaunchNext.app

Run this command only for apps you trust.

If you prefer terminal-based app management, you can install with Homebrew:

brew tap RoversX/homebrew-tap
brew install --cask launchnext

Build from source

git clone https://github.com/RoversX/LaunchNext.git
cd LaunchNext
open LaunchNext.xcodeproj

Command-line build:

xcodebuild -project LaunchNext.xcodeproj -scheme LaunchNext -configuration Release

Universal binary build:

xcodebuild -project LaunchNext.xcodeproj -scheme LaunchNext -configuration Release ARCHS="arm64 x86_64" ONLY_ACTIVE_ARCH=NO clean build

Data storage

~/Library/Application Support/LaunchNext/Data.store

Native Launchpad integration

LaunchNext reads the native Launchpad database:

/private$(getconf DARWIN_USER_DIR)com.apple.dock.launchpad/db/db

This allows importing your previous app positions, pages, and folder structure.

Quick start

1. Download LaunchNext from Releases and open it.
2. Launch LaunchNext and wait for the first app scan.
3. Open Settings and run Import Launchpad.
4. Tune layout, appearance, shortcuts, and performance settings.
5. If anything behaves unexpectedly, check troubleshooting first.

Quick links

• Getting Started
• Settings
• Shortcut & Gesture
• CLI and TUI
• Updates and Troubleshooting