GNOME extension adds a top-panel menu for 292 applications

Orbit Global Menu is a new GNOME extension that adds a working global menu to the desktop’s top panel, restoring a feature GNOME deliberately omits. It may appeal to users who prefer traditional menus, while others may see little need for it; the extension also highlights how GNOME’s streamlined, smartphone-influenced design differs from more customisable desktops.

Its developer, Unmade, built keyboard-control maps for 292 applications so the extension can display menus and operate them by sending simulated keystrokes. These menus cover only part of each app’s options, but testing on Ubuntu 26.10 found that every application in the full installation worked to some extent. Installing an additional connector can extend support to more applications.