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Migrate from ExtraDock 4#

ExtraDock 5 can import compatible ExtraDock 4 data. Migration creates an ExtraDock 5 configuration; it does not overwrite the ExtraDock 4 setup.

Start an import#

You can import during first-run onboarding when ExtraDock 4 data is found on this Mac. After onboarding, open Settings → Backup and choose Import from ExtraDock 4. The importer reads ExtraDock 4's own configuration and custom icons, not exported .extradockbackup files.

Importing from Settings replaces every current ExtraDock 5 dock with the converted ExtraDock 4 configuration. ExtraDock asks Replace the current configuration? before it does this and does not save a snapshot first, so export an ExtraDock 5 backup if you want to keep the current docks. The import can be run again at any time.

Your ExtraDock 4 license is carried over separately and automatically; see License.

Review the report#

The importer reports what it imported, converted, or skipped under headings such as Imported docks, App settings, Repaired automatically, Worth checking, and Not carried over. Review that report before relying on the new configuration.

Some V4 concepts map to different V5 concepts. For example:

  • V4's Live Dock modes become either Live Dock or Running Apps.
  • V4 virtual Trash becomes the Virtual Trash widget, while native Trash is represented separately. The migrated widget starts empty and keeps working even though Virtual Trash is no longer offered in the widget library.
  • V4 per-dock appearance and behavior values are converted to the V5 Style, Position, Screens, and Behavior model. A dock that was hidden in ExtraDock 4 arrives turned off.
  • V4's left-click behavior becomes each dock's Clicking the active app setting, and V4's notification badge settings are applied to every dock.
  • Per-dock hotkeys are imported and listed under Worth checking so you can confirm they do not clash with another app.

Some V4 settings have no ExtraDock 5 equivalent and are listed under Not carried over: the global default icon size and animation speed, dock-name labels, folder icon tints and full-path labels, Live Dock hidden-item lists, the Finder widget's Activate Finder behavior, per-widget refresh intervals, Trash badge colors and icon styles, App Preview settings, and Launch at login, which you turn on again in Settings → General.

Keep ExtraDock 4 installed until you have verified dock placement, widgets, custom icons, shortcuts, and connected services in ExtraDock 5.