Navigation / The visual dictionary
App switcher.
A system interface for moving between running or recently used applications.
Also calledtask switcherrecent apps
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UI illustrationSee it in context
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What it is
A system interface for moving between running or recently used applications. Show recognizable app identities and enough context to choose the intended app.
When to use it
Use the term for operating-system multitasking rather than in-app destinations.
Know the difference
An app switcher changes applications; a tab bar changes areas inside one application.
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Across platforms
WebiOSiPadOSAndroidmacOSWindowsLinuxwatchOSWear OStvOSAndroid TVvisionOS
Web · iOS · iPadOS · Android · macOS · Windows · Linux · watchOS · Wear OS · tvOS · Android TV · visionOS
Phones often show recent app cards; desktop systems offer keyboard switchers, task views, and docks.
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Go to the source
Primary documentation for the pattern and its platform conventions.