How to Manage Login Items on macOS

EPISODE · Jan 19, 2026

How to Manage Login Items on macOS

from AppleVis Podcast · host AppleVis Podcast

In this episode, Tyler demonstrates how to manage login items on macOS.If there are certain apps or files that you always want open, you can configure them to open automatically when logging into your Mac. To do this, go to System Settings > General > Login items & Extensions, click Add, and select the item in the open dialog. To delete a login item, select it in the table and click Remove. Alternatively, items in the Dock can be added as login items by selecting them and choosing "open at login" from the "options" submenu in the item's context menu (accessed by pressing VO-Shift-M); uncheck this option to remove it.In addition to login items, Login items & Extensions Settings allows you to manage background items, processes that run even if the app is not open in order to complete certain tasks or respond to changing conditions, such as checking for and installing updates. If there are certain apps you don't want to be able to run background processes, for example, if they're utilizing a disproportionate amount of system resources, you can toggle them off under the "App background activity" heading; however, keep in mind that disabling an app's background processes may cause the app to not work as expected, so you may wish to perform additional research before doing so to determine those processes’ functions. If, after uninstalling an app, its background items still appear in this list, you may need to manually delete the files that the app deposited, which can typically be found in the "Launch Agents" folders, one of which is in your user Library folder (~/library) and the other in the Library folder at the root of your startup disk (/library), as well as the "Launch Daemons" folder in the Library folder at the root of your startup disk.TranscriptDisclaimer: This transcript was generated by AI Note Taker – VoicePen, an AI-powered transcription app. It is not edited or formatted, and it may not accurately capture the speakers’ names, voices, or content.Tyler: Hey AppleVissers, Tyler here with a quick tip for how to manage login items on macOS. Login items, as the name suggests, are items like apps or files that open automatically when logging into your Mac. This may be useful if you, for example, have apps that you use constantly or always want open. So even if you restarted your Mac, those apps would be open and ready for you to use. While this feature may be convenient, the more items you have configured to open automatically might slow the boot process or login process. In addition, some apps insert themselves as login items or background items, which I'll explain later. And depending on your preference and use case, you may not want certain apps opening every time you log in. So in this tutorial, I'll demonstrate how to manage this. To do that, you'd go into System Settings, General, Login Items and Extensions. I'll demonstrate that now on my Mac.VoiceOver: Menu bar, Apple app system settings, ellipsis, Dropbox, alias, system, window, sidebar, table. Row 10 of 37, general, selected.Tyler: Okay. VLGlobe right for the scroll area. Scroll area. Interact.VoiceOver: In scroll area. 16 items general.Tyler: And since this is located near the bottom, I'll VLGlobe right.VoiceOver: Transfer or reset button. VL left. Device, time machine, startup disk,…

NOW PLAYING

How to Manage Login Items on macOS

0:00 0:00

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Photo Breakdown Scott Wyden Kivowitz Photo Breakdown is a podcast in which we explore the world of photography with a trusted guide, host Scott Wyden Kivowitz. His expertise and passion bring the industry to life as we explore the stories, trends, and ideas shaping it today. Join us as we dissect everything from incredible photographs and creative techniques to the latest gear releases and hot topics in the photography community.In each episode, we break down what’s happening behind the scenes - whether it’s making a powerful image, a candid discussion on industry trends, or a reflection on the tools and technology changing how we make photographs. You’ll get insights, expert opinions, and a fresh perspective on what’s top of mind for photographers right now.Anticipate short, engaging episodes brimming with ideas and inspiration. Be part of the conversation by sharing your thoughts, voice notes, and comments. Your participation is what makes our community vibrant and dynamic.It’s more than just photography - everyth Sunday Morning Linux Review - MP3 Feed Tony Bemus, Mary Tomich, Phil Porada, and Tom Lawrence Sunday Morning Linux Review www.smlr.us is a podcast with Tony Bemus, Mary Tee , Phil Porada, and Tom Lawrence. We talk about the Linux and Open Source News. Edited episodes and show notes are found at www.smlr.us , We will be Live on IRC #SMLR and Video: youtube.com/c/SmlrUs WSJ Free for All with Jason Gay Jason Gay, The Wall Street Journal In his unique style, Jason Gay from The Wall Street Journal discusses the current events and news you need to be informed on sports, culture and life. Enjoy these timely and engaging stories in our WSJ Free for All podcast. The Digital Resilience Show David Wild Podcast by David Wild
URL copied to clipboard!