Moving an app to the desktop on Windows 10 can be a useful and convenient way to access your favorite applications without having to search for them in the Start menu or taskbar. By moving an app to the desktop, you can have quick and easy access to it whenever you need it. In this blog post, we will explore different methods to move an app to the desktop on Windows 10, providing you with step-by-step instructions and additional tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
Video Tutorial:
The Challenge of Moving an App to the Desktop on Windows 10
Moving an app to the desktop on Windows 10 might seem like a straightforward task, but the process can sometimes present challenges. Some apps, especially those installed from the Microsoft Store, do not have the option to be directly placed on the desktop. This limitation can be frustrating, especially if you have a frequently used app that you want to access quickly. However, there are several methods you can use to overcome this challenge and move an app to the desktop.
Things You Should Prepare for
Before we dive into the methods, there are a few things you should prepare to ensure a smooth process of moving an app to the desktop on Windows 10. These preparations include:
1. An active Windows 10 computer: Make sure your computer is running on Windows 10, as the methods mentioned in this blog post are specific to this operating system version.
2. Administrative access: To perform some of the methods, you may need administrative access to your Windows 10 computer. Make sure you have the necessary permissions to make changes to your system.
3. App shortcuts: Some methods require you to create a shortcut of the app you want to move to the desktop. Familiarize yourself with creating shortcuts using the right-click context menu or the "Send to" option.
Now that you are prepared, let’s explore the methods to move an app to the desktop on Windows 10.
Method 1: Using the “Create Shortcut” Option
One of the simplest ways to move an app to the desktop on Windows 10 is by using the "Create Shortcut" option. This method allows you to create a shortcut of the app on your desktop, providing quick access with just a double-click. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Locate the app you want to move to the desktop. This can be done by searching for the app in the Start menu, taskbar, or the file explorer.
2. Once you have located the app, right-click on its icon and select the "Create Shortcut" option from the context menu.
3. A prompt will appear asking if you want to place the shortcut on the desktop. Click "Yes" to create the shortcut.
Now, you should see a shortcut of the app on your desktop. You can double-click on the shortcut to open the app directly.
Pros:
1. Simple and straightforward process.
2. Provides quick access to the app without searching through the Start menu or taskbar.
3. Can be easily customized with different icons or names.
Cons:
1. Some apps may not have the "Create Shortcut" option available.
2. The shortcut may not always reflect updates or changes made to the app.
Method 2: Via Drag and Drop
Another method to move an app to the desktop on Windows 10 is by using the drag and drop feature. This method allows you to physically move the app’s icon from the Start menu, taskbar, or file explorer to the desktop. Follow these steps to move an app to the desktop using drag and drop:
1. Locate the app you want to move to the desktop.
2. Click and hold the app’s icon using the left mouse button.
3. While still holding the mouse button, drag the app’s icon to an empty area on your desktop.
4. Release the mouse button to drop the app’s icon on the desktop.
The app’s icon should now be on your desktop, and you can double-click on it to open the app directly.
Pros:
1. Quick and intuitive method.
2. Provides direct access to the app without navigating through menus.
3. Can be done with both pre-installed apps and apps downloaded from third-party sources.
Cons:
1. Some apps may not allow you to move their icons using drag and drop.
2. The app’s icon placement on the desktop may be affected by screen resolution or desktop arrangement.
Method 3: Using the “Send to” Option
The "Send to" option is another convenient way to move an app to the desktop on Windows 10. This method allows you to send a shortcut of the app to the desktop without manually creating a shortcut. Follow these steps to move an app to the desktop using the "Send to" option:
1. Locate the app you want to move to the desktop.
2. Right-click on the app’s icon and hover over the "Send to" option in the context menu.
3. In the expanded options, click on "Desktop (create shortcut)".
A shortcut of the app should now be available on your desktop, providing easy access to the app.
Pros:
1. Can be used for apps that don’t have the "Create Shortcut" option.
2. Offers a quick way to create a shortcut on the desktop without manual placement.
3. Works for both pre-installed apps and third-party apps.
Cons:
1. The "Send to" option might not be available for all apps.
2. The shortcut may not always reflect updates or changes made to the app.
Method 4: Using the Desktop App Installer
If you have apps installed from the Microsoft Store, you can use the Desktop App Installer to move them to the desktop on Windows 10. This method allows you to create a shortcut for apps that don’t have the traditional options mentioned above. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Open the Microsoft Store app on your Windows 10 computer.
2. Search for the app you want to move to the desktop using the search bar.
3. Once you have found the app, click on its icon to open the app’s page.
4. On the app’s page, click on the three-dot menu button and select the "Install on my devices" option.
5. In the pop-up window, click on the checkbox next to "Desktop" and click on the "Install" button.
The app should now be installed on your desktop, and you can access it by double-clicking on its icon.
Pros:
1. Specifically designed for apps from the Microsoft Store.
2. Provides an official method to move apps to the desktop without workarounds.
3. Allows for easy installation and access to apps directly from the store.
Cons:
1. Limited to apps available on the Microsoft Store.
2. Not suitable for apps downloaded from third-party sources.
Why Can’t I Move An App to the Desktop on Windows 10
There can be various reasons why you might not be able to move an app to the desktop on Windows 10. Some common reasons include:
1. App restrictions: Certain apps, especially those from the Microsoft Store, may have restrictions that prevent them from being moved to the desktop. This limitation is set by the app developer and cannot be bypassed.
2. Start menu integration: Apps that are integrated into the Start menu or taskbar may not have the option to be moved to the desktop. These apps are designed to provide easy access through the menu and may not have a shortcut-based approach.
3. Compatibility issues: Older apps or apps with specific system requirements may not support moving the app to the desktop. Compatibility issues can prevent the smooth functioning of the app when not accessed through the Start menu or taskbar.
To overcome these challenges, you can try alternative methods mentioned in this blog post, such as creating a shortcut or using the "Send to" option to have a shortcut-like functionality on the desktop.
Additional Tips
Moving an app to the desktop on Windows 10 can be further enhanced with these additional tips:
1. Customizing app icons: Once an app is moved to the desktop, you can right-click on its icon, go to "Properties," and click on "Change Icon" to choose a custom icon for the app. This can help differentiate the app from other desktop icons.
2. Grouping similar apps: If you have multiple apps on your desktop, consider organizing them by creating folders. You can create a new folder, drag and drop the app shortcuts into the folder, and rename the folder for easy categorization.
3. Updating app shortcuts: If an app’s shortcut on the desktop doesn’t reflect recent updates or changes, you can delete the existing shortcut and recreate it using the methods mentioned in this blog post to ensure you have the latest version of the app.
These tips can help you make the most out of moving an app to the desktop, creating a personalized and efficient desktop experience on Windows 10.
5 FAQs about Moving an App to the Desktop on Windows 10
Q1: Can I move any app to the desktop on Windows 10?
A: While most apps can be moved to the desktop using the methods mentioned in this blog post, certain apps, especially those from the Microsoft Store, may have limitations that prevent them from being moved.
Q2: Are there any alternatives if I can’t move an app to the desktop?
A: If you encounter difficulty moving an app to the desktop, you can create a shortcut or pin the app to the taskbar for quick access.
Q3: Will moving an app to the desktop affect its functionality?
A: Moving an app to the desktop should not affect its functionality. The app will continue to work as expected, providing the same features and capabilities.
Q4: Can I remove the app shortcut from the desktop without uninstalling the app?
A: Yes, you can remove the app shortcut from the desktop without uninstalling the app. Simply right-click on the shortcut and select "Delete" or drag and drop the shortcut to the Recycle Bin.
Q5: How can I arrange the app shortcuts on my desktop?
A: To arrange the app shortcuts on your desktop, you can click and drag them to different positions. You can also right-click on the desktop, go to "View," and choose different arrangement options like "Auto arrange icons" or "Align icons to grid."
In Conclusion
Moving an app to the desktop on Windows 10 can improve accessibility and convenience, providing quick access to frequently used applications. While there might be restrictions for some apps, the methods mentioned in this blog post offer various solutions to overcome these challenges. By using the "Create Shortcut" option, drag and drop, "Send to" option, or the Desktop App Installer, you can easily move apps to the desktop and personalize your Windows 10 desktop experience. Remember to prepare the necessary requirements and apply additional tips to further enhance your desktop organization. With these methods and tips at your disposal, you can enjoy a more streamlined workflow on Windows 10.