Loading local apps in 4.5.x

[sci_fi]

Starting with v4.5, it appears that only apps  and scm's located in /optional are available to be downloaded locally. With earlier versions I was able to store my infrequently used app's  (and dependencies) elsewhere and download them "locally".  This allowed me to keep my /optional directory relatively small. Nice for usb stick versions.  The "search" button is greyed out. I am not able to change the path name at the bottom of the window. Will this capability be restored in later versions?

Thanks,

sci_fi