8 Easy Ways to Access Launchpad on Mac
Launchpad is an essential feature on MacBooks, providing easy access to all your installed apps in one place. But did you know that there are multiple ways to open Launchpad on your Mac? In this article, we'll explore 8 different methods so you can choose the one that works best for you. Let's dive in!
1. From Dock
The simplest way to access Launchpad is through the dock at the bottom of your screen. Just click on the Launchpad icon, and you're good to go.
2. F4 Key (Intel Macs)
If you own an Intel Mac, you can access Launchpad by pressing the F4 key on your keyboard.
3. Spotlight Search
Spotlight search is a powerful tool on Mac that can also be used to access Launchpad. Simply click on the Spotlight icon in the menu bar or press Cmd + Space to open Spotlight search. Then type “Launchpad” and click on it to access Launchpad.
4. Touch Bar
If you have a MacBook with a Touch Bar, you can use it to access Launchpad. Just locate the Launchpad icon on the Touch Bar and tap on it with your finger.
5. Trackpad Gesture
Mac's trackpad gestures are a convenient way to navigate the macOS ecosystem. You can enable a trackpad gesture to quickly access Launchpad. Simply go to System Preferences > Trackpad > More Gestures and check the box next to Launchpad. Then, pinch in with three fingers and your thumb on the trackpad to open Launchpad.
6. Keyboard Shortcut
If you're a fan of keyboard shortcuts, you can set up a shortcut for Launchpad. Go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Shortcuts > Launchpad & Dock, and check the box next to Show Launchpad. Then, press the desired combination of keys to open Launchpad.
7. Finder
If you've accidentally removed the Launchpad icon from your Dock, you can still access it through the Finder app. Open Finder, go to Applications, and double-click on Launchpad.
8. Hot Corners
Mac's Hot Corners feature allows you to access Launchpad by moving your mouse to a specific corner of the screen. To enable this feature, go to System Preferences > Desktop & Screen Saver > Screen Saver > Hot Corners. Select a corner and choose Launchpad from the options.
With these 8 methods, you can effortlessly access Launchpad on your Mac. Whether you prefer using the dock, keyboard shortcuts, gestures, or other options, there's a method that will suit your workflow. Give them a try and become a Mac power user in no time!

Jim's passion for Apple products ignited in 2007 when Steve Jobs introduced the first iPhone. This was a canon event in his life. Noticing a lack of iPad-focused content that is easy to understand even for “tech-noob”, he decided to create Tabletmonkeys in 2011.
Jim continues to share his expertise and passion for tablets, helping his audience as much as he can with his motto “One Swipe at a Time!”