# Find apps kept outside the usual Applications folder

Use CubbyPad’s additional app-folder sources for an existing custom software location instead of rebuilding its visual arrangement around an invisible app.

By [Rudra Satani](https://cubbypad.com/about/), maker of CubbyPad · 26 October 2026

## Locate the software before adding a source

First find the actual application in Finder. A disk image, package installer, document or shortcut is not the same as an installed app bundle. Knowing the real location makes it possible to tell the launcher where to look without changing the software’s files.

## Add a specific discovery folder

1. Open Settings › Layout › App Folders.

1. Choose Add Folder… and select the relevant app location.

1. Allow the discovery configuration to refresh.

1. Search for one known application from that folder.

## A source folder is different from a grid folder

An app source tells CubbyPad where installed software lives. A folder made by dropping two icons together tells the launcher how to group entries visually. You may need both, but creating the visual group cannot install an app or make an unavailable source readable.

Removing a configured source does not delete its files. Use Hide from Grid if visibility is the only thing you want to change.

## Keep the path available

If the location is on another disk, test that disk’s connection before reporting a missing result. Follow the application maker’s own guidance before relocating an installation. A launcher source preference is not a guarantee that every app supports being moved anywhere.

Published by CubbyPad’s maker. See [about CubbyPad](https://cubbypad.com/about/) for the author and product details. For corrections, [get in touch](https://cubbypad.com/contact/).

## Put it into practice.

[Guide

### When CubbyPad does not open as expected

Check the installation, license and opening controls before changing your layout or reinstalling the app.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/troubleshooting/)[Guide

### Move apps and make folders

Drag apps into place, move a group together, rename a folder and hide an app without removing it from your Mac.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/folders/)

## More on app organization.

[### Find and place a newly installed Mac app

Confirm the app was installed, find it in search or Recently Installed, and choose its permanent folder only after checking that it opens.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/newly-installed-apps-in-cubbypad/)[### Read notification badges in your app grid

CubbyPad can show app badge counts and folder totals, while the underlying notifications remain controlled by macOS and each application.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/notifications-in-mac-app-grid/)[### Recent apps or suggested apps above the grid?

CubbyPad’s App strip can favor the apps you just used or learn what you tend to open at that time of day.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/recent-apps-vs-suggested-apps/)

## Make room for your apps.

Every feature. One-time purchase. Made for macOS 26.

[Find your plan](https://cubbypad.com/pricing/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/blog/custom-application-locations-mac/