What is Ulauncher?

Ulauncher is a fast application launcher for Linux written in Python using GTK+. With over 4.2k GitHub stars, it provides an intuitive way to launch applications, search files, perform calculations, and extend functionality through a rich plugin ecosystem. It's designed to boost productivity by providing quick access to everything you need.

⚡ Productivity Boost: Stop hunting through menus or remembering complex commands. Ulauncher puts everything at your fingertips with intelligent fuzzy search, customizable shortcuts, and powerful extensions that adapt to your workflow.

            🚀 Why Latest Versions Matter: Ulauncher is actively developed with regular releases containing new features, performance improvements, and enhanced extension support. The latest versions include better fuzzy matching, improved themes, and expanded plugin capabilities for maximum productivity.
        

⚡ Key Features of Ulauncher

🔍 Fuzzy Search

Intelligent application search that understands typos and partial matches. Type what you remember, and Ulauncher finds what you need.

🧮 Built-in Calculator

Perform quick calculations without opening a separate app. Supports basic math, unit conversions, and mathematical expressions.

🔌 Extension System

Rich ecosystem of extensions for weather, translations, password management, and more. Browse hundreds of community extensions.

⚡ Custom Shortcuts

Create personalized shortcuts for web searches, scripts, or frequently used commands. Streamline your most common tasks.

📁 File Browser

Navigate directories and open files directly from the launcher. Type ~ or / to start browsing your filesystem instantly.

🎨 Custom Themes

Personalize appearance with built-in themes or create custom color schemes. Make Ulauncher match your desktop aesthetic.

🆕 What's New in Ulauncher 5.15.8+

Enhanced Performance: Faster application indexing and improved search responsiveness
Better Fuzzy Matching: More intelligent search algorithms for better results
Extension Improvements: Enhanced API and better extension management
Theme Enhancements: More customization options and visual improvements
Bug Fixes: Various stability improvements and edge case handling
GTK+ Updates: Better integration with modern Linux desktop environments

📦 Installation from debian.griffo.io

Step 1: Add Repository

curl -sS https://debian.griffo.io/EA0F721D231FDD3A0A17B9AC7808B4DD62C41256.asc | sudo gpg --dearmor --yes -o /etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/debian.griffo.io.gpg
echo "deb https://debian.griffo.io/apt $(lsb_release -sc 2>/dev/null) main" | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/debian.griffo.io.list
sudo apt update
                

curl -sS https://debian.griffo.io/EA0F721D231FDD3A0A17B9AC7808B4DD62C41256.asc | gpg --dearmor --yes -o /etc/apt/trusted.gpg.d/debian.griffo.io.gpg
echo "deb https://debian.griffo.io/apt $(lsb_release -sc 2>/dev/null) main" | tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/debian.griffo.io.list
apt update
                

Step 2: Install Ulauncher

# Install latest Ulauncher
sudo apt install ulauncher

# Verify installation
ulauncher --version
                

# Install latest Ulauncher
apt install ulauncher

# Verify installation
ulauncher --version
                

🎯 Basic Usage Examples

Launch and configure:

# Start Ulauncher
ulauncher

# Launch with preferences
ulauncher --preferences

# Run on startup (systemd)
systemctl --user enable --now ulauncher
        

Essential shortcuts:

# Default hotkey: Ctrl+Space (configurable)
# Application search: Just start typing app name
# Calculator: Type math expressions like "2+2" or "15*8"
# File browser: Type ~ for home or / for root
# Web search: Configure custom shortcuts like "g query" for Google
        

Popular extensions:

# Browse extensions at: https://ext.ulauncher.io/
# Popular extensions:
# - Weather forecast
# - Password manager integration  
# - Unit converter
# - Emoji picker
# - System commands
# - Translation services
        

🚀 Why Choose debian.griffo.io?

📊 Repository Comparison:

Official Debian: Available but often outdated versions
Manual Installation: Complex dependency management
debian.griffo.io: Latest version (5.15.8+) with automatic updates

✅ Latest Features: Get newest extensions and productivity improvements
✅ Automatic Updates: Packages updated within hours of upstream releases
✅ Proper Dependencies: Correctly packaged with GTK+ and Python requirements
✅ Multi-Distribution: Works on Bookworm, Trixie, and Sid
✅ Easy Maintenance: Standard apt commands for updates

📦 Package Build Repository

The Debian packages are automatically built and maintained in this GitHub repository:

🚀 ulauncher-debian - Latest release builds

🔗 Related Packages

Also available from debian.griffo.io:

fzf Fuzzy Finder - Command-line fuzzy finding
Yazi File Manager - Terminal file management
Ghostty Terminal - Modern terminal emulator

            🎯 Perfect for: Linux users seeking productivity improvements, developers who want quick application access, anyone frustrated with traditional application menus, and users who appreciate customizable, extensible tools.
        

🚀 Install Latest Ulauncher on Debian