Dolphin on Ubuntu: Multitasking Features and Usage
Dolphin is the default file manager for the KDE Plasma desktop environment, which can be installed on Ubuntu (though Ubuntu’s default file manager is Nautilus). For users working with Dolphin on Ubuntu—especially those using a KDE-based Ubuntu variant (like Kubuntu)—multitasking is a core strength, supported by several built-in features designed to enhance productivity. Below are the key multitasking capabilities and how to use them:
Dolphin supports multiple tabs within a single window, allowing you to open and switch between different folders seamlessly. This reduces window clutter and makes it easier to manage multiple locations.
Ctrl+T) to add a new tab. Navigate to another folder in the new tab, and use Ctrl+Tab to cycle between tabs.The split view feature lets you open two or more panes within the same window, displaying different folders side-by-side. This is ideal for drag-and-drop operations (e.g., moving files between folders) or comparing directory contents.
F3). You can split the window vertically or horizontally. Drag files between panes to move/copy them quickly.Dolphin integrates with Ubuntu’s virtual desktop feature (available in both GNOME and KDE), enabling you to spread file management tasks across multiple desktops. For example, you could dedicate one desktop to editing documents (with Dolphin open to your Documents folder) and another to managing downloads.
Super+Ctrl+Right/Left Arrow to switch between virtual desktops. Drag Dolphin windows to a specific desktop to assign them, or right-click the window title and select “Move to Desktop”.Dolphin includes an integrated terminal (accessible via F4 or the “Terminal” button in the toolbar), allowing you to execute shell commands without leaving the file manager. This is useful for batch operations (e.g., renaming files with mv or rename) or troubleshooting file issues.
F4 to open the terminal in the current folder, and run commands as needed. The terminal shares the same working directory as the Dolphin window.Dolphin handles file operations (copying, moving, deleting) in the background, so you can continue browsing or working while these tasks run. Progress is displayed in the window title and the system tray, so you’re always aware of task status.
Save frequently used folders as bookmarks to access them instantly from the Dolphin sidebar. This eliminates the need to navigate through multiple directories each time.
Ctrl+D. The folder will appear in the sidebar under “Bookmarks” for quick access.Dolphin supports plugins to add functionality like batch renaming, file preview, or FTP/SFTP integration. These plugins can streamline repetitive tasks and enhance productivity.
If you’re using Ubuntu’s default GNOME environment, you’ll need to install KDE components to use Dolphin. Run the following commands in the terminal:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install dolphin kde-cli-tools
This installs Dolphin along with essential KDE tools. Note that installing KDE components may increase system resource usage slightly.
By leveraging these features, you can efficiently manage multiple tasks in Dolphin on Ubuntu, whether you’re organizing files, running commands, or accessing remote locations.