App Pier review
A focused launcher for finding, pinning, and switching Mac apps, with a one-time $2.99 price.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
App Pier is a Mac application launcher and switcher for people who want to reach apps quickly, especially through the Touch Bar or keyboard shortcuts. It can search the Applications folder, pin favorite apps, switch to running apps, and open favorite folders. Its scope is app access and window management, rather than a general set of Touch Bar controls.
The Touch Bar provides controls for pinned and running apps, while keyboard shortcuts cover launching and switching as well. Window controls add options to hide or reveal windows, hide other apps’ windows, and use Focus Mode to show the selected app’s windows while hiding others. App Pier also indicates whether running Apple Silicon apps use Rosetta 2. These features suit users who want app switching and window focus in one focused utility; they are less relevant if the goal is media or system controls.
App Pier costs $2.99 as a one-time purchase, with a single listed plan. It runs on macOS, and the App Store listing specifies macOS 11.0 or later; Touch Bar controls require a MacBook Pro with a Touch Bar. Email is the listed support channel. Choose App Pier if app search, pinned and running apps, shortcuts, or window focus are the main need. A user seeking broader Touch Bar controls should look for a different fit.
App Pier pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Search the Applications folder to launch apps.
- Pin favorites and switch to running apps from the Touch Bar.
- Use shortcuts, favorite folders, and window-hiding controls.
- Where it doesn't
- Touch Bar controls require a MacBook Pro with a Touch Bar.
- The listing specifies macOS 11.0 or later.
- Its focus is app launching and switching, not media or system controls.
App Pier fact sheet, pricing and score →
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