# Start CubbyPad automatically at login

Enable Open at login in Settings › General to keep the launcher ready after signing in to your Mac.

Last updated 26 October 2026

## Follow these steps

1. Keep CubbyPad installed in Applications.

1. Open CubbyPad Settings › General.

1. Turn on Open at login.

1. If macOS requests approval, review CubbyPad in System Settings › General › Login Items.

## What to expect

CubbyPad waits in the background rather than opening its full grid across your desktop at every sign-in. Use the chosen shortcut, key, corner or icon when you need it.

An opening shortcut needs the app to be running. Starting in the background solves that readiness problem; it does not launch every app in your layout or create an automatic work session.

## If the result is different

If the shortcut works only after you manually open CubbyPad, inspect both Open at login and macOS’s approval status. Confirm that you are launching the Applications copy. A locked license screen concerns activation, which is separate from login-item permission.

For the broader walkthrough, read [choose how to open the app grid](https://cubbypad.com/guides/opening/).

## Related answers.

[### Fix a CubbyPad login item that needs approval

CubbyPad can direct you to macOS Login Items when the system needs approval before starting it automatically.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/login-item-needs-approval/)[### Show or hide CubbyPad’s Dock icon

The Dock toggle in Settings › General controls CubbyPad’s own Dock icon, separate from the apps inside its grid.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/show-dock-icon/)[### Keep CubbyPad in the menu bar

Turn on the Menu bar option in Settings › General for an entry point to the grid, Settings and Quit.

Read answer ↗](https://cubbypad.com/help/show-menu-bar-icon/)

Source: https://cubbypad.com/help/open-at-login/