A familiar place
to start.
Setup and answers for Claude Launcher, the independent Mac utility from Picktek.
Getting started
- Install Claude Desktop from Anthropic’s official download page. Claude Launcher requires macOS 14 or later.
- Choose Start fresh for a new profile, or Bring my Claude to copy your existing saved data.
- Approve the macOS folder-access dialogs when you are ready. The launcher completes setup automatically.
- Sign in inside the Claude window if asked. Use the launcher to open or return to each profile.
A few useful answers
What happens to my existing Claude?
The launcher copies saved files into a new profile and verifies the copied contents before opening it. Your original files remain in place, and copying does not close your original Claude window. Changes made after copying are not synchronized between profiles. Unsaved in-memory changes may not be included.
Why does macOS ask for folder access?
You choose where profile data is stored. A one-time setup dialog also lets the launcher install its launch helper in its own Application Scripts folder. Copying an existing setup requires access to the folders containing it. You can cancel any permission dialog.
Where are my profiles?
The default location is ~/Developer/claude-launcher. Each profile has its own Desktop and Code folders. Change the location for new profiles in Settings. Use a profile’s menu to reveal its folder in Finder.
How do I close or remove a profile?
Open its menu and choose Close Claude to request a normal quit for that profile. Remove from List removes the launcher entry while retaining its files and any open Claude window.
Copying did not finish. What should I do?
If source files keep changing, the launcher stops after a few attempts. Let Claude finish its current activity and try again. Check that the destination has enough free space. If the app reports a recovery folder, retain it until you have checked your data. The original is retained.
Why might Claude ask me to sign in again?
Authentication and account access are controlled by Claude. Some credentials may be tied to the original installation or macOS Keychain. Sign in inside the new Claude window. Claude also installs its own Code runtime when needed.
Can I change appearance?
Open Settings and choose System, Light, or Dark. Decorative animations respect the Reduce Motion setting on your Mac.
Before sharing a support report
Include the app version, your macOS version, and a short description of what happened. Please leave out passwords, account tokens, and conversation contents.