How to Change Icon Position on Ubuntu Desktop
Ubuntu desktop icon position settings control where new files, folders, and app shortcuts land on your screen. You can set new items to appear in any of the four screen corners, such as the top-left or bottom-right, instead of letting them pile up randomly.
This quick adjustment takes effect right away to keep your workspace tidy. Change the layout using the desktop settings menu.
Open Settings , navigate to Extensions, and select the Desktop Icons extension. Under Desktop Icons settings, choose your preferred position from Top Left, Top Right, Bottom Left, or Bottom Right to change where new icons appear.
Choose a new icon position on Ubuntu Linux
Your Ubuntu desktop icon position can be changed quickly through the main settings menu. Open Settings from the application grid or the top-right system menu to find the display and appearance controls that let you rearrange your files and shortcuts on the screen just the way you want them.
Alternatively, click the System menu at the top-right corner of your screen and select Settings.
In the Settings app, open the Extensions app. You can also click the gear icon for the “Desktop Icons” extension, found in the Extensions manager.
Under the Desktop Icons settings, look for the position options. Select your preferred spot for new icons:
- Top Left
- Top Right
- Bottom Left
- Bottom Right
The changes apply as soon as you click your choice. Next, explore how to add application icons to your desktop.
How to add application icons on the desktop on Ubuntu Linux
Adding application icons to your Ubuntu desktop lets you open your favorite programs with a single click. You just need to right-click the program file and select 'Allow Launching' so Ubuntu turns it into a working shortcut on your main screen.
Right-click the file and select "Allow Launching." This ensures the icon renders correctly and looks like a real application shortcut.
That is all it takes.
Conclusion
Setting your icon position is a quick way to clean up your Ubuntu desktop. You can pick any of the four corners to keep your files neat. Using the "Allow Launching" feature also keeps your favorite apps one click away.
How to arrange desktop icons in Ubuntu?
You can also sort icons differently to fit your workflow.
Where to store icons in Ubuntu?
User-specific application and settings icons are found in the ~/.icons/ or ~/.local/share/icons/ directories. This is where user-specific customizations, including manually installed icon themes, are located.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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