Convert Unity Launcher to Dock - Customization Guide
Transforming the Unity Launcher into a Dock-Style Interface
By default, the Unity Launcher in Ubuntu is positioned on the left edge of the display. Users desiring a launcher situated at the screen's base can reconfigure the Unity Launcher to function as a dock-style element.
Previously, we detailed the installation and utilization of Cairo-Dock to achieve a Mac OS X-inspired dock on Ubuntu systems. However, the standard Unity Launcher remained present on the left side. This guide presents a method for automatically concealing the Unity Launcher while simultaneously displaying Cairo-Dock at the bottom of the screen.
Important Note: When instructions involve typing text, any text enclosed in quotation marks should be entered exactly as shown, unless otherwise specified.
Installing Necessary Tools
The initial step involves installing both the Unity Tweak Tool and Cairo-Dock. To begin, locate and click the Ubuntu Software Center icon within the Unity Launcher.
Within the Ubuntu Software Center window, initiate a search for “unity tweak” using the search box in the upper-right corner. As you type, relevant results will begin to appear. Select “Unity Tweak Tool” from the list and then click the “Install” button to proceed.
An “Authenticate” dialog box will appear. Enter your user password in the designated “Password” field and click “Authenticate” to confirm.
The installation progress will be visually indicated on the right side of the “Unity Tweak Tool” listing.
Next, search for Cairo-Dock and install it utilizing the same procedure as described for the Unity Tweak Tool.
Upon completion of the Cairo-Dock installation, close the Ubuntu Software Center window by clicking the X button in the upper-left corner.
Configuring the Launcher and Dock
To launch the Unity Tweak Tool, click its icon on the Unity Launcher. If no icon is present, open the Dash and type “unity”. The Unity Tweak Tool icon should appear under “Applications”. Click it to start the application.
Within the Unity Tweak Tool, navigate to the “Unity” section and select “Launcher.”
On the “Launcher” tab, toggle the “Auto-hide” switch to the “ON” position. The Unity Launcher will immediately be hidden. Further customization options, such as “Auto-hide animation,” “Reveal location,” and “Reveal sensitivity,” are also available.
To initiate Cairo-Dock, move your mouse cursor to the left side of the screen (or the top-left corner, depending on your configuration) to reveal the Unity Launcher. Then, click the Cairo-Dock icon.
The Cairo-Dock will appear at the bottom of the screen. Refer to our dedicated article for detailed information on customizing and utilizing Cairo-Dock.
Automatic Startup of Cairo-Dock
To ensure Cairo-Dock launches automatically upon login, right-click anywhere on the dock. Navigate the context menu by hovering over “Cairo-Dock” and then selecting “Launch Cairo-Dock on startup.”
Note: Selecting this option removes it from the menu. To disable automatic startup, use the Startup Applications tool.
This configuration provides a combined experience, offering a dock at the screen's base while retaining access to the Unity Launcher by simply moving the mouse to the left side of the screen.