Permissions in ExtraDock 5#

Open Settings → Permissions to review permission-dependent features. ExtraDock requests access when a feature needs it rather than requiring every permission at first launch. Each row shows Granted, Not granted, or Determined when first used, lists the features that need it, and offers Request Access and Open System Settings where macOS allows it. The checks happen locally; nothing about your permissions is stored or sent anywhere.

Accessibility#

Accessibility lets ExtraDock find, raise, and monitor windows across Spaces and displays. It is used for activating an app's existing window from another Space or display, cycling and minimizing windows from the dock, fullscreen detection for auto-hide, notification badges for messaging apps, Reserve Dock Space, and minimized-window indicators in Space Awareness and Window Previews. Without it, dock clicks fall back to a plain app activation and macOS may open a new window instead. Onboarding offers this permission once, and the Manager shows an Accessibility permission is off banner with Enable Accessibility until it is granted. macOS manages this permission in System Settings → Privacy & Security → Accessibility.

Screen Recording#

Window Previews use Screen Recording to capture window thumbnails and titles. Without it, previews fall back to a plain icon-and-title list. macOS may call this Screen & System Audio Recording.

Bluetooth#

The Bluetooth Battery widget can use Bluetooth access for richer and more accurate readings. Without it, the widget can still use the basic information macOS exposes, but some keyboards, mice, and headphones may not show a percentage.

Automation (Finder)#

Automation permission lets ExtraDock ask Finder to empty the Trash directly from the dock's Trash item. macOS asks for it the first time you use Empty Trash, so the row reads Determined when first used and links to System Settings → Privacy & Security → Automation. Without it, Empty Trash opens the Trash folder so you can empty it yourself.

Files and folders#

Files and folders do not have a separate row on the Permissions page. macOS can ask for access when you choose a folder, file, custom icon, backup, Shelf location, or similar resource. Access applies to the resource you select.

If a feature remains unavailable after granting permission, quit and reopen ExtraDock or follow the restart guidance shown by macOS.