Important Notes
These notes will help you understand how the app works, what it requires, and how to get the best experience. Please review carefully to avoid having any issues.
After Update Behavior
Due to a macOS issue, the app might not reopen automatically after App Store updates. If this happens, launch it manually from Applications or Launchpad.
Dock at Bottom Only
DockLock Apps only supports Docks positioned at the bottom. Side or vertical Dock positions are not compatible.
Separate Spaces Setting
“Displays have separate Spaces” must be enabled in System Settings → Desktop & Dock. Without this, the Dock can’t be locked properly per screen.
Two Displays Required
You need at least two displays — either two monitors or a monitor + iPad (via Sidecar). Manual Dock movement between displays must be possible using the mouse.
Configure “Allow Dock to Jump To” for Best Experience
For the best experience, use the “Allow Dock to Jump To” setting to control where the Dock is allowed to move.
- Check only the display where you want the Dock to appear.
- Uncheck all screens where the Dock should never jump.
Make sure to configure this for every display combination you use.
For example, if you have three monitors:
- Connect all displays and select your preferred Dock screen.
- Disconnect one or more monitors and repeat the process to ensure DockLock App handles each setup correctly after sleep or startup.
App Must Stay Running
Dock locking is only active while the app is running. Quitting the app will restore default Dock behavior.
Cmd+Tab Behavior
macOS keeps Cmd+Tab tied to the Dock’s current location. This is a system-level behavior the app cannot override.
macOS Version
The app supports macOS Mojave (10.14) and all later versions. Older macOS versions are not supported due to missing system APIs. If you need support for an older version of macOS, please email us [email protected] and let us know. If there’s enough interest, we may consider adding compatibility in a future update.
Does it support displays stacked vertically?
Yes, DockLock App can work with vertically stacked displays, including those of the same size.
Please visit the FAQ section for step-by-step instructions and tips specific to vertical setups.
Dock Relocation Delay When Menus Are Open
DockLock Apps cannot relocate the Dock while any macOS menu is open - this includes system menus like Control Center. This is a system-level limitation.
For example, if you connect an AirPlay or Sidecar display while Control Center remains open, and macOS moves the Dock to the wrong screen, DockLock App won’t be able to fix it until the menu is closed. As soon as you close the menu or click outside of it, the app will relocate the Dock as expected.
DockLock App will attempt to correct the Dock position automatically within the first 15 seconds after connecting a new AirPlay or Sidecar screen.
Fullscreen App Limitations
In rare cases, certain fullscreen applications can interfere with DockLock Apps’ ability to stop the Dock from jumping between screens. This occurs due to macOS sandbox limitations, which may temporarily block the app’s ability to monitor Dock position changes while a fullscreen app is active.
This is a known limitation, and I’m actively working on a solution. A separate, optional helper app is planned to address this issue by enabling more reliable Dock control even when fullscreen apps are in use.
Exclusive Upgrade Discount
DockLock Pro will automatically detect your existing App Store purchase of DockLock Lite or DockLock+ and offer you an exclusive upgrade discount. Buy DockLock Lite or DockLock+ now to secure a lower upgrade price when DockLock Pro becomes available!
DockLock App not working in fullscreen or during screen sharing?
In the past, many online guides suggested setting a custom autohide-delay in Terminal to “fix” Dock behavior and keep it in place. While this tweak no longer works with modern macOS versions, it can still remain active if you applied it previously.
Unfortunately, this old setting can interfere with DockLock App, especially in fullscreen mode or during screen sharing.
If you’ve ever used such instructions, it’s a good idea to reset this setting:
defaults delete com.apple.dock autohide-delay; killall Dock
After running this command, restart DockLock App and try again.
This will restore the Dock’s default behavior and ensure full compatibility with DockLock App.
