# Sync an app grid between two Macs with iCloud Drive

CubbyPad can sync layouts, folders and chosen app names through your own iCloud Drive. It does not install apps on the other Mac or add license activations.

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

## Sync the arrangement, not the software installation

A familiar grid is useful when you switch between a laptop and a desktop. CubbyPad’s optional sync shares layouts and app names through your own iCloud Drive, so the organization can follow you.

The applications themselves are separate. An app available on one Mac still needs to be installed on the other before it can open there. Missing apps keep their positions for the Macs that have them.

## Prepare both Macs

1. Check that both Macs meet CubbyPad’s macOS requirement.

1. Enable iCloud Drive under the intended Apple Account on each Mac.

1. Save a backup of any arrangement you want to keep.

1. Turn on Sync with your other Macs in CubbyPad.

1. Open the grid on the other Mac and review the arrangement after iCloud has delivered the data.

## Sync and licensing are separate

Solo permits one active Mac; Duo permits two. Turning on sync does not increase that number. If you are moving from one Mac to another under Solo, deactivate the old Mac before activating the new one.

If both Macs need to use CubbyPad at the same time, choose a license with the appropriate number of activations.

## Keep a backup as well as sync

Sync helps share the current arrangement. A backup gives you a deliberately saved recovery point. Keep one before major imports or reorganization, and allow time for iCloud delivery before assuming a missing change means the layout was lost.

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

### 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/)[Guide

### Move your license to a new Mac

Deactivate the old Mac, then use the same key on the new one. Your license and your saved layouts are separate.

Read guide ↗](https://cubbypad.com/guides/move-license/)[Guide

### Activate your CubbyPad license

Find the key in your receipt or order page, then activate it in Settings. Solo covers one Mac and Duo covers two.

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

## More on layouts and workflows.

[### Back up your app layout before moving to a new Mac

Save a CubbyPad layout file before changing Macs or reorganizing your grid. Your layout, installed applications and license activation each need their own check.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/back-up-app-layout-before-moving-mac/)[### Open a folder of Mac apps together

CubbyPad’s Open All command launches the apps in a folder together. Keep the group small and purposeful for the start of a work or creative session.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/open-folder-of-mac-apps-together/)[### Set up your app launcher for an external monitor

Configure the opening screen, grid readability and layout rules separately when moving a MacBook between a desk and its built-in display.

Read article ↗](https://cubbypad.com/blog/app-launcher-setup-external-display/)

## 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/sync-app-grid-between-two-macs/