How to Get Launchpad Back on macOS Tahoe 26 [Tested]

After upgrading to macOS Tahoe, you might have noticed something missing — Launchpad is gone.

Apple replaced it with Spotlight, which now handles app launching. So if you want to open a Mac app, you’ll have to search for it in Spotlight or dig it up manually in Finder.

For users who’ve relied on Launchpad for years, this change can be confusing or annoying, and some might even hesitate to upgrade.

But don’t worry. This guide explains why Apple removed Launchpad and shows you how to get Launchpad back on macOS Tahoe, step by step.

Key Takeaways

1. You can’t bring back Launchpad using Terminal commands.
2. You can use third-party apps like BuhoLaunchpad to recreate the Launchpad experience on macOS Tahoe.

Why Did Apple Remove Launchpad in macOS Tahoe?

Launchpad was a simple but powerful feature, perfect for quickly launching apps, uninstalling them, or organizing them neatly.

It became a key part of how many people used their Macs every day.

However, with macOS Tahoe, Apple completely removed Launchpad and merged its features into Spotlight.

Apple’s likely reasons:

1. To simplify the user experience and remove duplicate functions.
2. To make macOS and iOS more consistent with each other.

While some users might like the streamlined workflow, others miss the old Launchpad layout and organization.

If you’re in that camp, there are still ways to get Launchpad back on macOS Tahoe, or at least something close to it.

How to Get Launchpad Back on macOS Tahoe 26

Method 1: Using Terminal Commands (Tested — Doesn’t Work)

Some online guides claim that you can restore Launchpad using Terminal commands like these:

sudo mkdir -p /Library/Preferences/FeatureFlags/Domain

sudo defaults write /Library/Preferences/FeatureFlags/Domain/SpotlightUI.plist SpotlightPlus -dict Enabled -bool false

Result: These commands don’t work.

Apple has completely removed Launchpad-related files and code from macOS, so no command can restore it.

Method 2: Using a Third-Party Launchpad Alternative ✅

If you want to get Launchpad back on macOS Tahoe, the best option is to use a third-party Launchpad alternative.

One of the best examples is BuhoLaunchpad. It provides a clean, intuitive interface that feels just like the original macOS Launchpad. It’s fast, smooth, and reliable — and even better in some ways.

BuhoLaunchpad features:

• Quickly launch your favorite apps.
• Customize app categories and layout.
• Drag & drop to rearrange icons.
• Search instantly using the keyboard.
• More features are coming soon.

If you miss Launchpad and want that familiar experience back, BuhoLaunchpad is an excellent solution.

Last Words

Apple may have removed Launchpad from macOS Tahoe, but that doesn’t mean you have to live without it. A Launchpad alternative like BuhoLaunchpad lets you get Launchpad back on macOS Tahoe and enjoy the same familiar experience.

If you’re comfortable with Spotlight, you can always stick with that instead.