705: macOS Window Management

This podcast episode provides an overview of various window management tools and features available on macOS for power users. The hosts discuss the challenges of managing multiple windows and the importance of choosing the right window manager app. They explore the evolution of window management on macOS, the concept of full screen mode, tiling, stage manager, and the app switcher tool. The episode also covers different third-party window management apps such as Moom, Lasso, Magnet, and Recast, highlighting their unique features and customization options. The speakers emphasize the importance of finding the right window management tool that suits individual preferences and workflows. Automation and the role of keyboard shortcuts in efficient window management are also discussed. Overall, this podcast episode aims to provide insights and ideas for optimizing window management and enhancing productivity on macOS. Takeaways • Window management is complex, especially for power users, and choosing the right window manager app is crucial. • Window management on macOS has evolved over time to meet the increasing complexity of computers and technological advancements. • Full screen mode is a useful window management method, particularly for users with smaller screens, enabling them to easily switch between full screen apps. • Tiling allows users to divide their screen space and have multiple apps open side by side, but there is room for improvement in terms of usability and automation. • Stage manager provides a visual representation of app groupings along the side of the screen, but its implementation needs improvement in terms of setup process, intuitiveness, and automation options. • The app switcher tool offers efficient navigation and management of windows and applications on macOS, providing customization options and seamless transitions between different workspaces. • There are numerous third-party window management apps available for macOS, each with its unique features and customization options. • Different approaches to window management, such as using gestures, trackpad-driven interactions, or keyboard shortcuts, cater to individual preferences and workflows. • Automation tools like Keyboard Maestro can enhance window management capabilities, allowing for quick switching between different setups and tailored tasks. • Custom setups for specific tasks can improve focus and efficiency, and combining automation tools with advanced window management apps can provide precise control over window placement and size. • Keyboard shortcuts play a significant role in efficient window management, but it's important to find the right method or app that suits individual needs. • Apple recognizes the value of window management and has included window management features in shortcuts, but there are still limitations that can be overcome with additional third-party tools.