10+ Essential GNOME Extensions for Ubuntu 20.04

GNOME extensions allow you to customize your Ubuntu desktop and add additional functionality. However, with the release of Ubuntu 20.04 and GNOME 3.36, many old and popular extensions are no longer compatible. Fortunately, there are still plenty of must-have GNOME extensions that work perfectly with Ubuntu 20.04.

How to Install and Use GNOME Extensions

To download and use GNOME extensions, you'll need a web browser and the GNOME Shell integration extension. You can install the GNOME Shell integration extension by running the following command in the Ubuntu terminal:

sudo apt install chrome-gnome-shell

Although the package name includes “chrome,” it works with all major browsers like Firefox, Google Chrome, Brave, and Vivaldi. Ubuntu 20.04 also provides a built-in app called “Extensions” that allows you to customize, enable, and uninstall GNOME extensions. To access it, simply press the super (Win) key and type “Extensions” in the GNOME launcher.

1. GSConnect

If you have an Android device and a Ubuntu machine, GSConnect is a must-have extension. It bridges the gap between your Android and laptop, allowing you to receive Android messages, WhatsApp, and other notifications on your laptop. You can even reply to these notifications directly from your laptop. Additionally, GSConnect allows you to receive call notifications and share files between your laptop and Android device.

2. Caffeine

Caffeine is a handy utility that prevents your computer from being locked or going into sleep mode. With just a tap on the coffee-icon in the top bar, you can disable automatic locking, allowing you to take a break without worrying about interrupting ongoing tasks.

3. Dash to Dock

While Ubuntu 20.04 provides options to position or auto-hide the dock, it lacks customization features. Dash to Dock is an extension that not only lets you customize the appearance of the dock but also provides additional modifications. For example, it offers intelligent auto-hide, which hides the dock only when an app is using the entire screen. The dock also appears only when you move the cursor rapidly towards it, making it a must-have extension for dock customization.

4. User Themes

User Themes allows you to set user-defined themes for the GNOME shell. If you use third-party icons or Ubuntu themes, User Themes must be installed on your system to apply them.

5. Google Earth Wallpaper

If you prefer minimal and pleasing wallpapers, the Google Earth Wallpaper extension is perfect for you. It dynamically changes your wallpaper daily using map images from sources like Google Earth, Google Maps, Bing Maps, OpenStreetMap, and GNOME Maps.

6. Arc Menu

If you miss the Start menu from Windows 10, Arc Menu is the extension for you. It provides a top-start menu similar to Windows 10, allowing you to launch apps, change settings, and access GNOME tweaks. You can even map the Arc Menu to the left super key for quick access.

7. Clipboard Indicator

The Clipboard Indicator extension is a useful tool for managing your clipboard history. It sits on the top bar and tracks all your copied texts. You can easily switch between copied texts using hotkeys. However, please note that the clipboard indicator doesn't support formatting and images.

8. TopIcons

TopIcons is an old GNOME extension that forces legacy tray icons to be displayed on the top bar. This is especially useful for legacy apps that still use tray icons, as the bottom taskbar in Ubuntu 20.04 no longer displays them.

9. Sound Input & Device Chooser

Sound Input & Device Chooser allows you to quickly switch between audio and microphone devices. Instead of going through the Ubuntu settings menu, you can easily switch the sound output device right from the top bar.

10. Lock Keys

Lock Keys is a handy utility that notifies you whether the Caps Lock and Num Lock keys are turned on or off. It sits on the top bar and displays a pop-up when you hit the Caps Lock or Num Lock key, letting you know the status.

11. Freon

Freon is a simple GNOME extension that allows you to monitor your CPU, GPU, and disk temperature. It's useful for tasks like gaming or video editing when you want to keep an eye on your system's temperature to avoid thermal throttling.

These are just a few of the essential GNOME extensions that work seamlessly with Ubuntu 20.04. They provide additional functionality and customization options to enhance your Ubuntu experience. Give them a try and let us know your favorite extensions in the comments below.

Also Read: Best Browsers For Ubuntu You Should Try in 2020