LaunchNow: Another Launchpad replacement for macOS 26 “Tahoe”

Apple has not yet confirmed an exact release date for macOS 26 “Tahoe”. However, it’s widely expected to arrive alongside iOS 26 — reports point to Monday, September 22 (or the days soon after) as the likely timing following Apple’s typical fall release cycle.

With macOS 26, Apple changed the app-launching experience and removed the traditional Launchpad. In response, third-party alternatives have appeared. One of them is LaunchNow, an open-source Launchpad-style launcher that restores the familiar grid, folders and app search for users who prefer the classic workflow.

Key points

• LaunchNow is available on GitHub (open-source) — https://github.com/ggkevinnnn/LaunchNow.
• LaunchNow does not appear on the Mac App Store or Amazon; installation requires downloading from the project repository and following the author’s instructions.
• Apple has not published an official macOS 26 release date; iOS 26 is rumored for Sept 22, which fits Apple’s usual schedule.

Should you try LaunchNow?

If you miss the old Launchpad, LaunchNow is worth trying, but remember it’s a community project distributed outside the Mac App Store — check the GitHub repo for usage details, permissions, and build instructions. If you prefer App Store installs, watch for any future App Store equivalents.

More resources:

• LaunchNow (GitHub): https://github.com/ggkevinnnn/LaunchNow
• Demo video: LaunchNow demo on YouTube

Tell us: would you restore Launchpad or switch to a new launcher? Comment below.