# Give apps names you will remember in your launcher

CubbyPad lets you rename apps in the grid and search using the names you choose. Use a memorable task or shorthand when the official app name is not what comes to mind.

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

## Your search words and product names may differ

You might think “writing” before remembering an editor’s name, or use a short nickname for a tool with a long title. CubbyPad’s naming option helps bridge that gap inside the launcher.

This is useful when a name is unfamiliar or when you open an app infrequently. A clear name is more helpful than an elaborate system of abbreviations you will need to learn again later.

## Choose a distinct name

1. Right-click the app in CubbyPad.

1. Choose Rename and enter the name you want to use.

1. Finish editing, then search for that name.

1. Check that the result is distinct from other apps you use.

1. Keep the name specific enough that you recognize it later.

## The name belongs to the launcher arrangement

A custom name in CubbyPad is not a request to rename application bundles in Finder or alter their contents. Use the launcher’s own Rename action rather than changing installed files to improve a search result.

Layouts and chosen app names can travel through optional iCloud Drive sync. The actual applications still need to be installed on each Mac where you want to open them.

## Use built-in matching when it is already enough

Try the app’s initials or a few name letters first. CubbyPad already handles short queries and typing mistakes. Rename only when your own mental label is more useful; you do not need to customize every app for search to work.

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

### Find apps, files and answers with search

Use names, initials, nicknames, sums and System Settings keywords. Run a Shortcut or open an app’s recent files from the same field.

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

### Set up layouts, Focus and iCloud sync

Keep separate app arrangements, pair them with a Focus, and share them through your own iCloud Drive.

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

## More on search and keyboard.

[### Do a quick calculation in your Mac app launcher

Type a calculation into CubbyPad’s Search or Ask field, then press Return to copy the answer. Basic calculations work without Apple Intelligence.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/calculator-in-mac-app-launcher/)[### Run an Apple Shortcut from your Mac app grid

CubbyPad includes your Shortcuts in search results, so you can find and run an existing workflow from the same field you use to open apps.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/run-apple-shortcuts-from-app-grid/)[### Voice search and AI app search are different features

Voice search turns speech into a search query. Apple Intelligence task search suggests apps for what you want to do. Their permissions and requirements are different.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/voice-search-vs-ai-app-search-mac/)

## 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/give-mac-apps-search-nicknames/