Introduction to macOS Menu Bar Apps
MacOS is preferred for its fluidity and seamlessness, thanks to solid hardware and fire-breathing silicon. However, Apple has often ignored glaring functional holes in the OS, such as the lack of a native clipboard and underutilization of the Menu Bar. Fortunately, excellent third-party apps have addressed these issues, and in this article, we will explore some of the best menu bar apps that enhance the macOS experience.
The Importance of Menu Bar Apps
Menu bar apps are easier to access, don’t clutter the screen estate, and are fairly lenient on system resources. They offer a convenient way to perform various tasks without disrupting the main workflow. Apple hasn’t done a stellar job at optimizing in-house apps as Menu Bar utilities, but third-party developers have filled this gap with innovative solutions.
Hide Icons: A Solution for Privacy and Productivity
One of the significant issues with macOS is the lack of a built-in feature to hide desktop icons. This can be a problem when sharing screens or taking screenshots. Hide Icons is a free app that lives in the Menu Bar and hides all items on the screen with a simple right-click. It allows users to pick their own wallpaper color and specify the behavior for active or all screens. This app is perfect for screen capture and live video presentations, and it’s free without any ads.
TimeCraft: A Goal-Based Workflow App
TimeCraft is a favorite macOS menu bar app that helps users set daily work targets in the form of cards. It allows users to set names, pick a color identifier, and start a timer for each task. The app shows a neat timer at the top of the screen, revealing progress made on the current activity. TimeCraft is designed to keep users disciplined and focused, and research suggests that time management impacts wellbeing and life satisfaction.
Hidden Bar: A Solution for Crowded Menu Bars
Installing multiple menu bar utilities can lead to a crowded menu bar, especially with the wide notch on newer Macs. Hidden Bar offers a convenient solution by hiding all icons behind a slide-out menu. Users can hide or reveal icons manually or set an auto-hide behavior at intervals. This free app is a must-have for users with multiple menu bar tools.
Shutdown Scheduler: A Utility for Mac Maintenance
Shutting down or putting a Mac to sleep mode is essential for maintenance and troubleshooting. Shutdown Scheduler is a free utility that lets users set timers for shutdown and sleep mode separately. It shows the countdown behavior and allows users to execute it with admin privileges. This app is perfect for users who forget to shut down their Macs or put them to sleep mode.
Conclusion
In conclusion, macOS menu bar apps can significantly enhance the user experience by providing convenient solutions to various problems. From hiding desktop icons to scheduling shutdowns, these apps offer a range of features that can boost productivity and privacy. By exploring these third-party apps, users can unlock the full potential of their Macs and enjoy a more seamless and efficient workflow. Whether you’re a student, professional, or casual user, menu bar apps are definitely worth checking out.
