Step-by-Step Guide: How to Put Apps on the Desktop on an Acer Chromebook

Chromebooks are known for their simplicity and ease of use, but sometimes you might crave a bit more desktop-like experience. You might want to quickly access your favorite apps without navigating through menus. This is where the ability to put apps on your desktop comes in handy. This guide will show you exactly how to put apps on the desktop on your Acer Chromebook, transforming your Chromebook experience.

Understanding Chrome OS and App Placement

Chrome OS, the operating system powering Chromebooks, is built around the web. It prioritizes web apps and online services. While you can install Android apps, placing them directly on your desktop isn’t a standard feature like on a Windows or macOS computer. However, there are clever workarounds that allow you to achieve a similar effect.

Method 1: Using the “Pinned” Feature

This method is the most straightforward way to create quick access to your frequently used apps.
1. Open the App Drawer: Click the “Apps” icon (the square with nine dots) at the bottom left of your screen.
2. Find Your App: Locate the app you want to pin to your desktop.
3. Right-Click the App: Right-click on the app icon.
4. Select “Pin to Shelf”: A menu will appear. Choose “Pin to Shelf.”
5. App on the Shelf: The app will now appear on the “Shelf” at the bottom of your screen.

Method 2: Utilizing the “Shortcuts” Feature

This method allows you to create custom shortcuts for any app, website, or file, effectively placing them on your desktop.
1. Open the “Files” App: Click the “Files” icon (the folder icon) at the bottom left of your screen.
2. Create a New Shortcut: Navigate to the “My Files” section and right-click anywhere in the empty space. Select “New” and then “Shortcut.”
3. Choose Your Target: In the “Target” field, enter the URL of the website, the path to the app, or the file you want to create a shortcut for.
4. Set a Name: Provide a descriptive name for the shortcut.
5. Save the Shortcut: Click “Create.” Your new shortcut will appear in the “My Files” section.
6. Move the Shortcut: Drag the shortcut from the “Files” app window to your desktop.

Method 3: Employing the “Chrome Web Store”

This method allows you to add web apps to your Chromebook’s desktop.
1. Open the “Chrome Web Store“: Access the Chrome Web Store by typing “chrome web store” in the address bar of your Chrome browser.
2. Find the App: Search for the web app you want to add to your desktop.
3. Install the App: Click the “Add to Chrome” button.
4. Launch the App: Once installed, you can launch the app from the “Apps” menu.
5. Create a Shortcut: Right-click on the app in the “Apps” menu and choose “Pin to Shelf.” This will create a shortcut to the web app on your shelf.

Method 4: Leveraging Android Apps

While not directly on your desktop, you can organize your Android apps using folders.
1. Open the “Play Store“: Launch the Play Store app on your Chromebook.
2. Install Apps: Search for and install the Android apps you want.
3. Create Folders: Once installed, open the “Apps” menu and long-press an app icon.
4. Drag and Drop: Drag and drop other app icons onto the first app to create a folder.
5. Rename the Folder: Give your folder a descriptive name.

Method 5: Enabling “Developer Mode” (Advanced)

This method allows for more customization but requires enabling Developer Mode, which may void your warranty.
1. Enable Developer Mode: This is a complex process; refer to Google’s official guide for detailed instructions.
2. Install Linux Apps: Once in Developer Mode, you can install Linux apps, which offer more desktop-like functionality.
3. Create Shortcuts: You can create shortcuts for Linux apps using the “Files” app, similar to Method 2.

Beyond the Desktop: Organizing Your Chromebook

While these methods help you create a desktop-like experience, remember that Chromebooks are built around web apps and online services. Here are some additional tips for organizing your Chromebook:

• Use Tabs: Chrome’s tab management allows you to keep multiple websites open without cluttering your desktop.
• Utilize Extensions: Chrome extensions can add features and enhance your browsing experience.
• Customize Your Shelf: You can rearrange apps on the Shelf to your liking.
• Use the “Files” App: The “Files” app is your hub for managing files, documents, and folders.

A More Seamless Chromebook Experience

By understanding the different ways to access and organize apps on your Acer Chromebook, you can create a more intuitive and personalized experience. Whether you prefer pinning apps to the Shelf, creating shortcuts, or utilizing web apps, these methods empower you to work efficiently and access your favorite tools with ease.

Popular Questions

Q: Can I create a shortcut to a specific folder on my desktop?
A: While you can’t directly create a folder on your desktop, you can create a shortcut to any folder within your “Files” app using the method described in Method 2.
Q: Is there a way to permanently dock apps on the desktop like on a Windows computer?
A: Unfortunately, Chrome OS doesn‘t have a feature for permanently docking apps on the desktop. The closest you can get is using the “Pin to Shelf” feature.
Q: Can I move the “Shelf” to the top of the screen?
A: No, the “Shelf” is fixed at the bottom of the screen in Chrome OS.
Q: Can I use multiple desktops like on a Windows or macOS computer?
A: Chrome OS doesn’t offer multiple desktops in the traditional sense. However, you can use Chrome’s tab management to create different “virtual desktops” within your browser.
Q: What are some recommended web apps for Chromebook users?
A: There are many great web apps for Chromebooks, but some popular ones include Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail, Google Calendar, and Zoom.