Introduction to Mac Computing
Apple’s approach to Mac computing is unique, focusing on simplicity, fluidity, and elegance, setting it apart from Windows. However, this approach can also feel restrictive, particularly when it comes to managing app windows in macOS. Until the release of macOS Sequoia, Apple didn’t offer proper window tiling and snapping options, a feature that Windows has had for a while.
The Problem with Window Management
The situation with window resizing in macOS is frustrating. The latest version of macOS suggests tiled positions as you drag a window across the screen, but it’s still far from perfect. This has led to the development of multiple third-party apps that fill this gap. One popular app is Rectangle, but at $10, it’s not affordable for everyone. This is where Swift Shift comes in, a free and open-source app that reimagines how you manage Mac app windows.
What is Swift Shift?
Swift Shift is an open-source app developed by Pablo Varela that dramatically changes how you manage Mac app windows. It’s free, with no ads, hidden charges, or subscription requirements. The app lives in the menu bar, with a small drop-down window containing a set of core controls. Its motto, "Never look for those tiny arrows again," refers to the tiny colored buttons in the upper left corner of an app window and the two-sided arrow that appears when you hover over the edges.
How Swift Shift Works
Swift Shift solves the problem of window resizing by ditching the grab-and-drag approach. Instead, you can resize an app window or move it across the screen from wherever the cursor is currently sitting. The app follows a quadrant approach for moving and resizing windows, making the entire app window an active canvas. You can click and move the cursor around to resize or move the window.
Easing Window Management
Swift Shift makes window management easier by allowing you to assign a separate keyboard shortcut for resizing. You can hit the keyboard shortcut, left-click on the mouse, and start moving it to adjust the window size with respect to the corner closest to the cursor. The app also lets you customize the shortcut behavior, focusing only on the foreground window to trigger the window movement and resizing.
Customization and Flexibility
The app offers flexibility in its controls, allowing you to adjust the shortcut behavior and choose the most easily reachable combination on either side of the keyboard deck. You can switch from the usual left click on the mouse to the right click, addressing personal dexterity and preferences. The overall experience is snappy, without any weird transitions or jitters.
Conclusion
Swift Shift is a must-have utility for all macOS fans who want an added dose of functional convenience for their day-to-day Mac computing. Its open-source roots have led to a community-driven development process, with feedback and bug fixes being addressed at a relatively brisk pace. The fact that it’s free and open-source makes it an excellent alternative to paid apps like Rectangle. Overall, Swift Shift is an excellent solution for anyone looking to improve their window management experience on Mac.
