Excitement is brewing for macOS 26, where a fresh design and a bevy of new features are set to elevate your Apple experience. However, amidst the innovation, one beloved feature is getting the axe: Launchpad.

The Return of a Classic: Launchpad's Legacy

Launched in 2010, Launchpad has long been a favorite among Mac users, offering a visually appealing way to organize and access applications. While the feature may seem outdated to some, certain users still cherish its convenience.

Why Keep Launchpad?

1. **Manage Your Apps Easily**: If you tend to juggle numerous applications, the Dock can get cluttered. Launchpad offers a spacious alternative, allowing you to sort apps by categories or usage occasions.

2. **Access to Occasional Utilities**: Let's face it—there are those quirky utilities we only use once in a blue moon. Launchpad provides a simple solution for quickly locating these apps when they’re needed.

How to Enable Launchpad Again

For the die-hard fans wishing to bring Launchpad back, there is a way to re-enable it using Terminal commands. Here’s how:

1. Open the Terminal app found in Applications > Utilities.

2. Enter the following command and hit Return: `sudo mkdir -p /Library/Preferences/FeatureFlags/Domain`.

3. Input your Mac’s administrator password and press Return.

4. Then type this command: `sudo defaults write /Library/Preferences/FeatureFlags/Domain/SpotlightUI.plist SpotlightPlus -dict Enabled -bool false` and hit Return.

5. Restart your Mac.

Proceed with Caution!

While the option is there, you might want to think twice before you dive in. Here are two compelling reasons to reconsider:

1. **Beta Limitations**: These Terminal commands are valid in the beta version, but there’s no assurance they will work in the final release. What if you can’t revert the changes?

2. **Missing Out on Spotlight Features**: Opting for Launchpad means you’ll miss out on all the exciting new functionalities that come with Spotlight—arguably one of the biggest highlights in macOS 26.

Consider an Alternative Memory Tool

Instead of rebooting Launchpad, consider a simple alternative for remembering your infrequently used apps: create a Note listing their names and functionalities. The Notes app transforms into a handy memory aid!

So, while the temptation to resurrect Launchpad might be strong, taking a step back could open the door to a more enriched Apple experience with macOS 26!