AppImage is another format for self-contained Linux applications that’s had undeservedly low media (see LXF234) coverage. A Linux program distributed and run as AppImage always remains a single executable file. Therefore, you may be running dozens of AppImages without cluttering the file system, just like ‘portable’ applications. But, you still need to manage them: integrate into the system menu hierarchy, keep them updated, and generally be aware of how many bundles you have.
AppImageLauncher is a great solution for doing that job and it is a must-have companion to your system once you are fond of AppImages. The program itself is a launcher, meaning that you’re supposed to open an AppImage with it. Once you do so, AppImageLauncher will come up and ask if you want to run the image once, or integrate it in your system for permanent use. The latter case is interesting, because you get some great desktop integration features without any extra effort. For instance, you can right-click an application launcher in your menu and find extra actions for removing and updating the program. Not every AppImage supports updating, but many do!