Just wanted to share, I recently learned that
True Launch Bar went freeware and it's awesome!!
I recall I had tried it once and found it interesting but felt it needed improvements in OS integration.
Now as a long-time user of the Quick Launch bar feature in Windows, I find this an invaluable OS add-on, especially because of the
command line plugin and the ability to launch standalone customisable bars across all screen edges.
The Quick Launch bar is getting increasingly hidden in Windows OS, but I find it essential, as it can hold one-click shortcuts or junctions to files and folders (using the
CascadeFolderBands reg key).
It may be tricky to set up for non-techy users, but I was amazed at all the possibilities it offers. For instance, it can be used just as a plain spacer to the left or right of Full HD screens, making it easy to center programs for better readability.
Other features I liked in it:
- has a portable version
- calendar and to-do list
- nifty timer creator, useful for Pomodoro-like time management
Software author considers
making TLB open-source and mentions the war with Ukraine as one of the reasons he chose to make it freeware.