Ever thought about combining the sleek aesthetics of macOS with the robust versatility of Windows 11/10? One way to achieve this visual blend is by introducing the iconic macOS Dock to your Windows setup. For many, the Dock serves as a symbol of Apple’s design elegance, and having it on a Windows machine can offer a refreshing visual twist. If you’ve found yourself pondering questions like, “How can I install the macOS Dock on my Windows 11 or 10 system?” or “How can I utilize the macOS Dock features on Windows?”, you’re in for a treat. In this risewindows article, we’ll spotlight a fantastic freeware tool called Winstep Nexus. This software allows Windows users to effortlessly emulate the macOS Dock experience. We’ll not only introduce you to this transformative tool but also guide you step-by-step on its installation and use, ensuring your Windows 11/10 desktop receives that chic macOS makeover it deserves. Dive in as we embark on this exciting customization journey!
Winstep Nexus for Windows 10/11
The benefit of using Winstep Nexus lies in its availability for free personal use. Furthermore, it facilitates the integration of the macOS Dock into your Windows 10/11 environment. After downloading the software, utilize any archival tool to extract its contents to a designated folder. Initiate the installation by double-clicking on the executable file. Once installed, launch the program to display the macOS Dock on your desktop. By concealing the desktop icons and the Taskbar, your Windows 11/10 display will mirror the aesthetic of an Apple computer, all thanks to Nexus.
You get the following features with Winstep Nexus freeware:-
- Change the position of macOS Dock
- Remove or add programs to the Nexus Dock
- Change the theme of the Nexus Dock
- Alter the appearance of the macOS Dock
How to Change the position of macOS Dock?
Once you’ve downloaded and installed the macOS Dock, Winstep Nexus will, by default, appear at the top of your screen. To modify its position, simply right-click on the Dock and select ‘Screen Position.’ From there, pick the desired location on your desktop where you’d like the Dock to be situated. If you prefer a more hands-on approach, you can also reposition it simply by dragging it to your desired spot.
By accessing the Screen Position, you may also align the Dock to the Top, Center, or Bottom. You may even drag and drop the Dock in the right direction to align it.
From the aforementioned screenshot, you’ll observe an option labeled “Lock Position.” This feature functions similarly to the “Lock the Taskbar” option in Windows 10. When activated, it prevents any unintentional movements or repositioning of the Dock, ensuring it remains fixed in its chosen location. This is especially handy for maintaining a consistent desktop layout and avoiding accidental disruptions.
If you want the Dock always to be shown above all other programs, click on Z-Order under Screen Position and choose Always On Top.
How to remove or add programs to the Nexus Dock?
Simply drag and drop the application shortcut to the Dock to add your preferred software to the Nexus Dock.
After adding numerous objects to the Dock, you may remove any of them by right-clicking on the docked item and choosing the Remove from Dock option. It is as easy as ABCD.
How to Change the Theme of the Nexus Dock?
Numerous themes are included with Nexus Dock. Right-click on the Dock and choose Preferences to alter the default theme if you don’t like it. Now select your preferred theme from the options that are shown under the Themes tab in the Preferences window.
How to Alter the appearance of the macOS Dock?
You also have the flexibility to customize the look of the macOS Dock to better suit your aesthetic preferences. To embark on this personalization journey, right-click on the Dock to access the Preferences window. From there, navigate to the ‘Appearance‘ tab, where you’ll be presented with a plethora of options to tweak and refine the Dock’s visual appeal. Whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a complete makeover, this section offers the tools to make it happen.
Within the appearance settings, you’re presented with a myriad of customization options to fine-tune the aesthetics of the Dock. For those who prefer a more minimalistic look, you can achieve a transparent effect by simply clicking on the “Dock Transparency” button. The interface also affords you the freedom to adjust various parameters such as Icon spacing, Color settings, Icon color configurations, Blur Settings, and Icon drop shadows, among others. This ensures that you can mold the Dock’s appearance precisely to your liking.
Should there come a time when you decide to declutter your desktop and remove the Dock temporarily, there’s no need to go through the hassle of uninstalling the entire software. Instead, simply navigate to the System Tray, right-click on the Winstep Nexus icon, and choose the “Exit” option. This action will remove the Dock from your display, but keep the software intact, allowing for easy reactivation whenever you desire.
Main Features of Winstep Nexus
- Provides options for task grouping, task filtering, and icon customization when displaying running programs on the dock.
- Built-in support for animated icons.
- Individual or grouped system tray icons on the dock.
- Blur-Behind (7/Vista) and dock backdrop colorization.
- Compatible with skins for all 3rd party docks.
- A clock that announces the time, a recycle bin, an email checker, a weather monitor, CPU, Net, and RAM Meters, and Wanda the swimming “fortune cookie” fish are a few examples of built-in modules or widgets.
- Over 80 unique commands—including Sleep, Empty Recycler, CD Control, etc.—are available.
- Multiple animated mouse over, launch, attention, and delete effects: zoom, swing, bounce, and many more!
- Dynamic water-like effects and real-time symbol reflections.
- Change shortcut and running program icons instantly by dragging and dropping PNG and ICO image files into the icon.
- Window minimization to the dock.
- Multi-monitor support.
- High-DPI support.
Download Winstep Nexus
It is possible to use the Winstep Nexus with Windows 11, 10, 8, 7, and Vista. This software is available for free download from the company’s website.
Try RocketDock if you want to look at additional macOS docks.
Conclusion
The Winstep Nexus tool offers Windows 11/10 users a chance to experience the sleek aesthetic of the macOS Dock without switching operating systems. Beyond just its visual appeal, the Dock adds an element of functional versatility, making commonly used applications easily accessible. The myriad customization options mean that users can tweak the Dock’s appearance to their heart’s content, ensuring a personal touch to their desktop experience. Whether you’re a fan of macOS, seeking a change in your Windows environment, or just love the idea of a customizable, handy toolset at the top or bottom of your screen, the macOS Dock via Winstep Nexus is a valuable addition. And with its non-permanent nature, users can easily toggle its presence, making it a flexible, user-friendly feature.
