The Intrusive Launcher
The Ubuntu desktop features a prominent Dock (often referred to as the Launcher) that usually sits on the left side of the screen. To maximize screen real estate, especially on smaller laptop displays, many users configure the Dock to “auto-hide.” However, the default behavior of the auto-hiding dock can be overly sensitive. Known as “Intellihide,” the dock might automatically slide out and overlay your active application window if you accidentally move your mouse cursor too close to the left edge of the screen. This sudden visual intrusion is highly distracting when you are reading text, trying to click a button near the edge of a web browser, or playing a game.
Managing Dock Auto-Hide Sensitivity
To stop the Ubuntu Dock from automatically popping open every time your mouse grazes the screen edge, you need to adjust the auto-hide settings and modify the pressure sensitivity threshold.
First, open the Settings app and navigate to the Appearance tab (or Ubuntu Desktop in newer versions). In the “Dock” section, you can simply turn the Auto-hide the Dock toggle switch to the Off position, which permanently pins the dock to the screen, stopping it from moving entirely. However, if you want it hidden but less sensitive, you need advanced tools. Open your terminal (`Ctrl + Alt + T`) and install `dconf-editor` by running sudo apt install dconf-editor. Launch `dconf-editor` from your app menu. Navigate the internal tree to org > gnome > shell > extensions > dash-to-dock. Look for the setting called pressure-threshold. Increase this numerical value significantly. By requiring more “pressure” (a harder, faster mouse movement against the edge), you prevent the dock from accidentally triggering during normal, casual mouse movements.