How to Stop Recents Showing on Mac
If you’re a Mac user and find the Recents feature cluttering your menu bar or causing unnecessary distractions, you might be wondering how to stop recents showing on your Mac. The Recents feature, which displays a list of recently opened applications and documents, can be handy for quick access, but it can also be intrusive if you prefer a cleaner, more focused workspace. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to disable the Recents feature on your Mac.
1. Accessing the Apple Menu
To begin, click on the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen. This will open the Apple Menu, which contains various system settings and options.
2. Opening System Preferences
From the Apple Menu, select “System Preferences.” This will open a new window displaying a variety of system settings, including general preferences, security, and privacy settings.
3. Navigating to the Dock & Menu Bar
In the System Preferences window, click on “Dock & Menu Bar.” This will open a new window with options to customize the appearance and behavior of your Dock and Menu Bar.
4. Disabling the Recents Feature
In the Dock & Menu Bar window, you’ll find a section labeled “Show recent items in Dock.” Uncheck this box to disable the Recents feature. This will remove the Recents menu from your Dock, ensuring that it no longer displays recently opened applications and documents.
5. Adjusting Other Settings (Optional)
If you wish to further customize your Dock and Menu Bar, you can adjust other settings in the Dock & Menu Bar window. For example, you can change the Dock’s position on the screen, resize it, or modify the appearance of the Menu Bar.
6. Restarting Your Mac
After making the changes, it’s a good idea to restart your Mac. This will ensure that the Recents feature is completely disabled and that any changes take effect.
In conclusion, stopping recents showing on your Mac is a straightforward process that can help you maintain a cleaner and more focused workspace. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily disable the Recents feature and enjoy a more tailored user experience on your Mac.
