Since the latest Ventura update, I've noticed that launching apps often places them in the background, rather than the frontmost window. I cannot find a setting to control this behavior, but it is frustrating when I launch an app and then have to click on the Dock icon to see the window.
iMac, macOS 10.13
Is it similar to this problem? dock icons don - Apple Community
If yes, there may not be any solutions according to Apple until they have a new update.
Give this a try: boot into Safe Mode according to How to use safe mode on your Mac and test to see if the problem persists. Reboot normally and test again.
NOTE 1: Safe Mode boot can take up to 3 - 5 minutes as it's doing the following;
• Verifies your startup disk and attempts to repair directory issues, if needed
• Loads only required kernel extensions (prevents 3rd party kernel/extensions from loading)
• Prevents Startup Items and Login Items from opening automatically
• Disables user-installed fonts
• Deletes font caches, kernel cache, and other system cache files
NOTE 2: if you have a wireless keyboard with rechargeable batteries connect it with its charging cable before booting into Safe Mode. This makes it act as a wired keyboard as will insure a successful boot into Safe Mode.
Apps not opening in front???
