applauncher

An applauncher is a software utility that provides quick access to installed applications. It is often described as an application launcher and can be integrated into a desktop environment or provided as a standalone program. Users typically launch programs by typing a name or selecting an item from a list or grid, and may use keyboard shortcuts to access the tool quickly.

Common features include indexing of installed programs, fuzzy search, filtering by category, and quick access to favorites and recently used items. Many applaud launchers support extensibility through plugins or scripts, enabling custom commands, web searches, or file operations. They may offer theming, keyboard shortcuts, and integration with the desktop shell or file manager.

Examples and scope: On desktop Linux and other Unix-like systems, standalone launchers such as Rofi, Albert, or Ulauncher perform these tasks, as do built-in launchers in desktop environments. Windows provides a Start Menu and Run dialog with launcher-like capabilities, while macOS offers Launchpad and associated utilities. Third-party launchers exist for these platforms, emphasizing fast access, search, and customization.

Purpose and considerations: App launchers aim to reduce navigation time and streamline workflows, especially for users who prefer keyboard-driven access. When evaluating a launcher, users consider performance, indexing scope, privacy, platform compatibility, and how well it integrates with other tools and workflows.