FlightBar 2.0 Released! June 2024: Started Swift Programming. October 2025: Learned So Much!
Over a year ago from today, I started learning programming in Swift from YouTube. Within a month, I pushed myself to make my first app - a flight tracker that sits in your menubar. I didn't know much; SwiftUI was new to me (and it shows) - I didn't know how to design apps, nor how to implement them. My backend was, well, non-existent. It was one simple function to decode JSON from an API response (the key for which, by the way, was pasted right in my app's code). With a grand total of 3 coding files, I really did not know anything about coding practices, organization, or components. I pushed out my first version to GitHub at the end of June.
Back in January this year, I was a lot more adept at coding, and finally decided to rework the app from the ground up. I added a real FastAPI backend, for one, which implemented a much more robust API calling system and Redis caching. My frontend became a little more polished, although it was still quite similar to my original design. I added more features and a settings panel. By May 2025, I purchased an Apple Developer License and published my first app to the App Store.
Let's cut to yesterday, when I released version "2.0" of FlightBar to the App Store. Several months of hard work and learning have gone into this simple app, which has more structural integrity and complexity than most users would ever give it credit for. But I didn't make a free app while paying a monthly API subnoscription from my pocket (although marginal) for "app success." I did it to learn as much as I could along the way, and I'm extremely proud of the results. During this time, I created another macOS app, Mossum, which also got a great response. This just gives me motivation, and I will never stop coding!!
I would love more feedback on the app, and ideas for v2.1. I'm always listening!
https://preview.redd.it/49lzlkim75vf1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=72b86bce2bbb50f6a7fd8e6127e6fc907df93e7f
https://redd.it/1o6rxmv
@macappsbackup
Over a year ago from today, I started learning programming in Swift from YouTube. Within a month, I pushed myself to make my first app - a flight tracker that sits in your menubar. I didn't know much; SwiftUI was new to me (and it shows) - I didn't know how to design apps, nor how to implement them. My backend was, well, non-existent. It was one simple function to decode JSON from an API response (the key for which, by the way, was pasted right in my app's code). With a grand total of 3 coding files, I really did not know anything about coding practices, organization, or components. I pushed out my first version to GitHub at the end of June.
Back in January this year, I was a lot more adept at coding, and finally decided to rework the app from the ground up. I added a real FastAPI backend, for one, which implemented a much more robust API calling system and Redis caching. My frontend became a little more polished, although it was still quite similar to my original design. I added more features and a settings panel. By May 2025, I purchased an Apple Developer License and published my first app to the App Store.
Let's cut to yesterday, when I released version "2.0" of FlightBar to the App Store. Several months of hard work and learning have gone into this simple app, which has more structural integrity and complexity than most users would ever give it credit for. But I didn't make a free app while paying a monthly API subnoscription from my pocket (although marginal) for "app success." I did it to learn as much as I could along the way, and I'm extremely proud of the results. During this time, I created another macOS app, Mossum, which also got a great response. This just gives me motivation, and I will never stop coding!!
I would love more feedback on the app, and ideas for v2.1. I'm always listening!
https://preview.redd.it/49lzlkim75vf1.png?width=1920&format=png&auto=webp&s=72b86bce2bbb50f6a7fd8e6127e6fc907df93e7f
https://redd.it/1o6rxmv
@macappsbackup
App Store
FlightBar App - App Store
Download FlightBar by RAJVEER SODHI on the App Store. See screenshots, ratings and reviews, user tips and more games like FlightBar.
Why I want a “stacked zones” window manager for macOS — not another tiling one
Most macOS window managers take inspiration from Linux tiling systems — great for developers, but not so great for the way I (and many Mac users) actually work.
I open *a lot* of applications. Not because I want to tile them all side by side, but because every project I work on involves multiple tools, reference materials, and documents. I’ve tried almost every tiling window manager out there, but I keep coming back to the same realization:
what I really need is a zone-based, stacked window system.
Here’s the idea:
* The screen is divided into fixed regions (zones), each with a simple numeric label.
* Using a hotkey, I can send any active window to a specific zone — e.g. `⌥1`, `⌥2`, `⌥3`.
* Each zone behaves like a stack: only one window is visible, but others can be cycled through quickly.
This approach solves the real tension in window management — the *conflict over visible area*.
I don’t care which app sits in which area all the time; I care about seeing what matters *right now* as clearly as possible, without losing access to the rest.
When I’m deeply focused on a task, I want the main tool’s window to dominate the screen — large, centered, immersive.
But I also want other tools and references nearby, in smaller stacked zones, ready to switch to when needed.
It’s not about “perfect tiling.” It’s about **m**anaging focus and visibility in a way that respects how we actually use Macs.
Has anyone built something like this? Or is there a hidden gem I’ve missed?
https://redd.it/1o6ybje
@macappsbackup
Most macOS window managers take inspiration from Linux tiling systems — great for developers, but not so great for the way I (and many Mac users) actually work.
I open *a lot* of applications. Not because I want to tile them all side by side, but because every project I work on involves multiple tools, reference materials, and documents. I’ve tried almost every tiling window manager out there, but I keep coming back to the same realization:
what I really need is a zone-based, stacked window system.
Here’s the idea:
* The screen is divided into fixed regions (zones), each with a simple numeric label.
* Using a hotkey, I can send any active window to a specific zone — e.g. `⌥1`, `⌥2`, `⌥3`.
* Each zone behaves like a stack: only one window is visible, but others can be cycled through quickly.
This approach solves the real tension in window management — the *conflict over visible area*.
I don’t care which app sits in which area all the time; I care about seeing what matters *right now* as clearly as possible, without losing access to the rest.
When I’m deeply focused on a task, I want the main tool’s window to dominate the screen — large, centered, immersive.
But I also want other tools and references nearby, in smaller stacked zones, ready to switch to when needed.
It’s not about “perfect tiling.” It’s about **m**anaging focus and visibility in a way that respects how we actually use Macs.
Has anyone built something like this? Or is there a hidden gem I’ve missed?
https://redd.it/1o6ybje
@macappsbackup
Reddit
From the macapps community on Reddit
Explore this post and more from the macapps community
Free Chat Apps for Ollama?
I recently discovered Ollama.
What is a free & recommended chat app to use with Ollama?
https://redd.it/1o6z7jd
@macappsbackup
I recently discovered Ollama.
What is a free & recommended chat app to use with Ollama?
https://redd.it/1o6z7jd
@macappsbackup
Reddit
From the macapps community on Reddit
Explore this post and more from the macapps community
Anyone want to share an alcove license?
According to their faq you can have up to 3 devices for one license.
https://tryalcove.com/
Let me know if this is against alcove’s tos.
https://redd.it/1o71jzz
@macappsbackup
According to their faq you can have up to 3 devices for one license.
https://tryalcove.com/
Let me know if this is against alcove’s tos.
https://redd.it/1o71jzz
@macappsbackup
Alcove
An entirely new way to experience Mac
Wipr2 blank spaces on YouTube home page?
Anyone else experiencing this with Wipr2 and other safari adblockers, where they work great on YouTube except there's a blank/empty space where sponsored ads are removed?
https://redd.it/1o73wm4
@macappsbackup
Anyone else experiencing this with Wipr2 and other safari adblockers, where they work great on YouTube except there's a blank/empty space where sponsored ads are removed?
https://redd.it/1o73wm4
@macappsbackup
Reddit
From the macapps community on Reddit
Explore this post and more from the macapps community
This media is not supported in your browser
VIEW IN TELEGRAM
🚀 Just released: JSON Brace – a Safari Extension for macOS & iOS!
https://redd.it/1o750z5
@macappsbackup
https://redd.it/1o750z5
@macappsbackup
Send Files Using Menu Bar On macOS
hello everyone i found this app which skips the extra steps for airdrop but it is paid.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quickdrop-fast-file-share/id6745764555
anyone know about a free alternative to this which is similar in function. thanks
https://redd.it/1o74i7f
@macappsbackup
hello everyone i found this app which skips the extra steps for airdrop but it is paid.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/quickdrop-fast-file-share/id6745764555
anyone know about a free alternative to this which is similar in function. thanks
https://redd.it/1o74i7f
@macappsbackup
Mac App Store
QuickDrop: Fast File Share
QuickDrop makes it easy to transfer any file using AirDrop.
Long gone are the days of hunting down the AirDrop tab in Finder. With QuickDrop, you'll drag your files directly into the menu bar, prompting a seamless transfer every time.
AirDrop has never…
Long gone are the days of hunting down the AirDrop tab in Finder. With QuickDrop, you'll drag your files directly into the menu bar, prompting a seamless transfer every time.
AirDrop has never…
Shadow now understands what you "see" in meetings!
Hi all!
I’ve been sharing regular product updates about **Shadow**, and today I’m thrilled to announce another big leap forward 🚀
Last time, Shadow **learned how to see** with **Smart Screenshots** — automatically capturing what’s on your screen alongside your conversations. (In case you missed it, here’s the post: [Shadow (v1.4.0) — Now Captures Both Trannoscript👂 and Screenshots 👀](https://www.reddit.com/r/macapps/comments/1nhpr8q/shadow_v140_now_captures_both_trannoscript_and/))
Starting today, Shadow goes even further:
👉 It doesn’t just *capture* what’s on your screen — it **understands** it.
* A chart pops up and you’re not sure what it means? **Shadow can explain it.**
* A doc is on screen and someone asks a question? **Shadow connects the dots instantly.**
* Reviewing specs or designs in real time? **Shadow helps you make sense of them on the spot.**
No more context-switching. No more scrambling to keep up. Shadow stays with you — *seeing, hearing, and understanding* the meeting as it happens.
# 📌 How to use it
**During meetings**
Click the toggle at the bottom-right corner of your screen. From then on, Shadow will automatically understand what you’re seeing in real time.
https://reddit.com/link/1o7cfrs/video/3zktejvgbavf1/player
**After meetings**
Type @ and select what you want Shadow to reference when asking questions.
https://preview.redd.it/omgnfqohbavf1.png?width=2554&format=png&auto=webp&s=a6fcea548f7fc62aef20a8c7b9db1b34d82af06e
This update turns Shadow into a true **active partner** — one that doesn’t just listen, but *follows along with you* every step of the way.
I’d love for you to try the new version and share your feedback. Your thoughts and ideas always mean a lot 🙌
Your first 25 meetings are free — and I’m happy to offer special promotions for new community members too. Just let me know!
[https://shadow.do](https://shadow.do)
https://redd.it/1o7cfrs
@macappsbackup
Hi all!
I’ve been sharing regular product updates about **Shadow**, and today I’m thrilled to announce another big leap forward 🚀
Last time, Shadow **learned how to see** with **Smart Screenshots** — automatically capturing what’s on your screen alongside your conversations. (In case you missed it, here’s the post: [Shadow (v1.4.0) — Now Captures Both Trannoscript👂 and Screenshots 👀](https://www.reddit.com/r/macapps/comments/1nhpr8q/shadow_v140_now_captures_both_trannoscript_and/))
Starting today, Shadow goes even further:
👉 It doesn’t just *capture* what’s on your screen — it **understands** it.
* A chart pops up and you’re not sure what it means? **Shadow can explain it.**
* A doc is on screen and someone asks a question? **Shadow connects the dots instantly.**
* Reviewing specs or designs in real time? **Shadow helps you make sense of them on the spot.**
No more context-switching. No more scrambling to keep up. Shadow stays with you — *seeing, hearing, and understanding* the meeting as it happens.
# 📌 How to use it
**During meetings**
Click the toggle at the bottom-right corner of your screen. From then on, Shadow will automatically understand what you’re seeing in real time.
https://reddit.com/link/1o7cfrs/video/3zktejvgbavf1/player
**After meetings**
Type @ and select what you want Shadow to reference when asking questions.
https://preview.redd.it/omgnfqohbavf1.png?width=2554&format=png&auto=webp&s=a6fcea548f7fc62aef20a8c7b9db1b34d82af06e
This update turns Shadow into a true **active partner** — one that doesn’t just listen, but *follows along with you* every step of the way.
I’d love for you to try the new version and share your feedback. Your thoughts and ideas always mean a lot 🙌
Your first 25 meetings are free — and I’m happy to offer special promotions for new community members too. Just let me know!
[https://shadow.do](https://shadow.do)
https://redd.it/1o7cfrs
@macappsbackup
Reddit
From the macapps community on Reddit: Shadow (v1.4.0) — Now Captures Both Trannoscript👂 and Screenshots 👀
Explore this post and more from the macapps community
Free Open Source App that brings cmdX + cmdV functionality to MacOS
It always bothered me that macOS doesn’t let you cut files in Finder with ⌘ + X like you can on other systems. After getting frustrated enough times, I decided to make a small app that adds ⌘ X and ⌘ V functionality for moving files.
It’s free, open source, and really simple. Just something I built for myself, but I thought others might find it useful too.
I know you can move files with ⌥ + ⌘ + V, but I just prefer using ⌘ + X.
If you’re interested, you can check it out here:
https://cmdx.yonn.online/
https://github.com/YONN2222/cmdX
https://redd.it/1o7hihg
@macappsbackup
It always bothered me that macOS doesn’t let you cut files in Finder with ⌘ + X like you can on other systems. After getting frustrated enough times, I decided to make a small app that adds ⌘ X and ⌘ V functionality for moving files.
It’s free, open source, and really simple. Just something I built for myself, but I thought others might find it useful too.
I know you can move files with ⌥ + ⌘ + V, but I just prefer using ⌘ + X.
If you’re interested, you can check it out here:
https://cmdx.yonn.online/
https://github.com/YONN2222/cmdX
https://redd.it/1o7hihg
@macappsbackup
cmdx.yonn.online
cmdX — Finder cut & paste utility for macOS
Bring ⌘X (Cut) to macOS Finder. cmdX is free, open source and works on Intel & Apple Silicon. Download releases on GitHub.
This media is not supported in your browser
VIEW IN TELEGRAM
Musicer v2.0 Released — A minimal and elegant music player.
This update adds support for macOS 26, fixes several issues, and improves the overall interface layout.
https://redd.it/1o7jqfp
@macappsbackup
This update adds support for macOS 26, fixes several issues, and improves the overall interface layout.
https://redd.it/1o7jqfp
@macappsbackup
Buildrrr - Create custom branded DMGs the easy way
https://offfwhite.design/buildrrr
https://redd.it/1o7t21q
@macappsbackup
https://offfwhite.design/buildrrr
https://redd.it/1o7t21q
@macappsbackup
offfwhite.design
Buildrrr - Create Custom Branded DMGs
Buildrrr is a macOS app for creating professional DMG installers. Design layouts, save templates, and add branding with ease. One-click signing, notarization, and stapling ensure Apple-compliant DMGs ready to ship with confidence.
Validate idea, an alternative Finder with multiple filters
Hi everyone,
This post is about validating my idea before I go all in on building it.
I’m planning to create a Finder alternative for macOS, and the first feature will be Multiple Filters — allowing users to search files using multiple conditions such as:
File name (contains text)
Extension
File size
Created date range
I plan to include this feature in PRO mode, where free users can use up to 2 filter conditions, while PRO users can unlock unlimited filtering and advanced options.
The app will be free to use, but with certain PRO-only features.
I know there are already Finder alternatives like Bloom, but I decided to pursue this because Finder is something every Mac user interacts with daily, and I believe there’s still room for improvement in usability and search power.
The tech stack will be ElectronJS + ReactJS, so the app won’t be a native macOS application.
Thank you everyone for reading.
I’d really appreciate your thoughts and feedback!
https://redd.it/1o7xial
@macappsbackup
Hi everyone,
This post is about validating my idea before I go all in on building it.
I’m planning to create a Finder alternative for macOS, and the first feature will be Multiple Filters — allowing users to search files using multiple conditions such as:
File name (contains text)
Extension
File size
Created date range
I plan to include this feature in PRO mode, where free users can use up to 2 filter conditions, while PRO users can unlock unlimited filtering and advanced options.
The app will be free to use, but with certain PRO-only features.
I know there are already Finder alternatives like Bloom, but I decided to pursue this because Finder is something every Mac user interacts with daily, and I believe there’s still room for improvement in usability and search power.
The tech stack will be ElectronJS + ReactJS, so the app won’t be a native macOS application.
Thank you everyone for reading.
I’d really appreciate your thoughts and feedback!
https://redd.it/1o7xial
@macappsbackup
Reddit
From the macapps community on Reddit
Explore this post and more from the macapps community
Folder Preview 2: Updated with Thumbnails & Icons View
Folder Preview has updated to version 2 with new app icon and new features like image thumbnails and Icons view. The performance of the extension is also massively improved.
Folder Preview 2 is a free upgrade for people who have purchased the app before. Go check it out: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/folder-preview/id6698876601?mt=12
Right-click status bar to switch view.
Icons view is perfect for images.
https://redd.it/1o7yidh
@macappsbackup
Folder Preview has updated to version 2 with new app icon and new features like image thumbnails and Icons view. The performance of the extension is also massively improved.
Folder Preview 2 is a free upgrade for people who have purchased the app before. Go check it out: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/folder-preview/id6698876601?mt=12
Right-click status bar to switch view.
Icons view is perfect for images.
https://redd.it/1o7yidh
@macappsbackup
App Store
Folder Preview App - App Store
Download Folder Preview by Anybox LTD on the App Store. See screenshots, ratings and reviews, user tips, and more games like Folder Preview.
Am I crazy or is Safari truly a very slow browser on Mac?
I've tried many browsers over the years, and you always hear people say some are slow, some are fast, but I could never really tell the difference. Kinda like iPhone cameras. They all seem good. But a couple of times a year I will try to force myself to start using Safari since it would be nice to have the seamless integration, especially since I'm basically forced to use it on my iPad since it's the only browser I can use extensions, see the bookmarks bar, and block ads, but I'm always shocked by how slow it is. Like, it's actually very sluggish. Chrome just feels wayyy faster.
It seems fine on an iPhone or iPad, but on my M3 MacBook Air and my old m2 MacBook Air, it's horrible.
Does anyone else feel this way, or am I just imagining it?
https://redd.it/1o7yxrl
@macappsbackup
I've tried many browsers over the years, and you always hear people say some are slow, some are fast, but I could never really tell the difference. Kinda like iPhone cameras. They all seem good. But a couple of times a year I will try to force myself to start using Safari since it would be nice to have the seamless integration, especially since I'm basically forced to use it on my iPad since it's the only browser I can use extensions, see the bookmarks bar, and block ads, but I'm always shocked by how slow it is. Like, it's actually very sluggish. Chrome just feels wayyy faster.
It seems fine on an iPhone or iPad, but on my M3 MacBook Air and my old m2 MacBook Air, it's horrible.
Does anyone else feel this way, or am I just imagining it?
https://redd.it/1o7yxrl
@macappsbackup
Reddit
From the macapps community on Reddit
Explore this post and more from the macapps community