Menu Bar Tools
BoringNotch
Boring Notch is a free, open-source app that turns your MacBook's notch into a useful part of your screen, similar to the Dynamic Island on iPhone. Instead of empty space, your notch becomes a music control center with a visualizer, a file shelf for drag and drop, and a replacement for the system HUDs you see when changing volume or brightness.
Key Features
- Music Controls and Visualizer: Hover over the notch to expand it and control your music, with a visualizer that reacts to the sound.
- File Shelf with AirDrop: Drag files into the notch to store them temporarily, with AirDrop support for quick sharing.
- Calendar and Reminders: See your calendar and reminders right from the notch area.
- System HUD Replacement: Boring Notch replaces the default macOS volume, brightness, and backlight indicators with its own versions in the notch.
- Works on Non-Notch Macs Too: If your Mac does not have a physical notch, Boring Notch simulates one, so older Macs can use it as well.
- Customizable: Click the star icon in your menu bar to adjust how your notch looks and behaves.
- Free and Open Source: Boring Notch is completely free, with all features included at no cost, and its code is public on GitHub.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Boring Notch free?
Yes. Boring Notch is completely free and open source, with no paid tier. You can sponsor the developers on GitHub if you want to support the project.
What macOS version does Boring Notch need?
Boring Notch needs macOS 14 Sonoma or later, and works on Apple Silicon or Intel Macs.
Do I need a MacBook with a notch to use it?
No. Boring Notch works best on 2021 and newer MacBook Pro and MacBook Air models with a real notch, but it also supports Macs without a notch using a simulated version.
How do I install Boring Notch?
You can install it with Homebrew using the command brew install --cask TheBoredTeam/boring-notch/boring-notch, or download the DMG from the releases page and drag it into Applications.
Why does macOS say Boring Notch is from an unidentified developer?
The developers do not have an Apple Developer account yet, so macOS shows this warning on first launch. You can open System Settings, go to Privacy and Security, and click Open Anyway, or run a Terminal command to remove the warning.
Does Boring Notch slow down my Mac?
No. Boring Notch is built to be lightweight and efficient, though actual impact can vary depending on your Mac and which features you use.