uBar
uBar is a macOS utility that replaces the Dock with a customizable task bar for launching apps, switching windows, and monitoring system status.
What is uBar?
uBar is a macOS utility that gives your Mac a taskbar-style app launcher and window switcher in place of the standard Dock. It is designed for users who want a more Windows-like desktop workflow or simply want more control over how open apps and windows are displayed. uBar can show running applications, window previews, clocks, and calendar information in a single bar that stays available across the desktop. It also includes options for organizing favorite apps and adjusting how windows, badges, and counts are presented. The app is published by Brawer Canada Inc. and is intended for people who want faster app switching and a more customizable desktop navigation experience on Mac.
Key features
- Replace the macOS Dock with a taskbar-style app bar
- Switch between open apps and individual windows from one place
- Preview open windows directly from the bar
- Pin favorite apps for quicker launching
- Show window counts and app status indicators
- Display clock, calendar, and reminder information in the bar
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
uBar is legitimate desktop customization software for macOS. To provide window controls and previews, it may request permissions such as Accessibility, Screen Recording, Calendar access, and optionally Full Disk Access for features related to Trash monitoring; these requests are consistent with the app’s stated functions. It runs as a visible desktop utility rather than a hidden system component. If you install it, review which permissions you want to grant and keep only the features you actually use enabled.
Recommendation: Keep uBar if you use its taskbar replacement and window management features regularly. If you prefer the standard macOS Dock or no longer rely on its desktop customization tools, you can remove it without affecting macOS itself, though its app-switching and bar features will stop working.
Common paths
/Applications/uBar.app
Cache paths
~/Library/Caches/ca.brawer.uBar
Support paths
~/Library/Application Support/uBar
Preference paths
~/Library/Preferences/ca.brawer.uBar.plist
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