Python Launcher
Python Launcher is a macOS helper app included with Python that opens and runs Python script files from the Finder.
What is Python Launcher?
Python Launcher is a small macOS utility included with the official Python distribution for Mac. It helps users open and run Python script files directly from the Finder instead of starting them only from Terminal. This is useful for people who double-click .py files, drag scripts onto the launcher, or set a Python script to open with Python Launcher by default. The app also provides preferences that control how a script is launched, including one-time launch changes through modifier-key use in Finder workflows. It is aimed at Python users on macOS who want a simple bridge between script files and the desktop environment.
Key features
- Open Python script files from the Finder
- Run scripts by dragging them onto the launcher
- Set .py files to open with Python Launcher by default
- Adjust launch preferences for how scripts are started
- Use one-time launch variations when opening a script
- Integrate Python scripts into basic macOS desktop workflows
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
Python Launcher is a normal component of the official Python distribution for macOS and its behavior matches its purpose: it starts Python scripts when you open them from the Finder. The main risk is not the launcher itself but the script you choose to run, because a Python script can execute commands, access files allowed by your account, or trigger other programs. Keep it if you use Python on your Mac, and avoid opening unfamiliar .py files by double-clicking them.
Recommendation: Keep Python Launcher if you use Python scripts from the Finder or prefer double-click launching. If you only run Python from Terminal, an IDE, or another editor, you can leave it unused or remove the related Python installation without affecting unrelated apps.
Common paths
/Applications/Python 3.13/Python Launcher.app/Applications/Python 3.14/Python Launcher.app/Applications/Python 3.12/Python Launcher.app
Preference paths
~/Library/Preferences/org.python.PythonLauncher.plist
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