macOS needs its grid back
3 hours ago
- #virtual-desktops
- #macOS
- #app-development
- Author recalls a better Mac desktop experience two decades ago with a single low-resolution screen that felt more efficient than today's multi-display setups.
- Introduction of macOS Leopard's Spaces feature in 2006 allowed customizable grid virtual desktops, enhancing spatial memory and workflow efficiency.
- macOS Lion's 2011 release replaced the grid with a horizontal-only Mission Control, disrupting spatial memory and prompting user frustration.
- Alternative solutions like Total Spaces had limitations, and modern window managers didn't suit the author's preference for fullscreen apps and dedicated workspaces.
- Inspiration to build GridLion came from seeing animation-free space switching, leading to a prototype developed with LLM assistance in a day.
- GridLion is a polished app designed to restore grid-based space navigation without system modifications, addressing permission hurdles and App Store restrictions.
- Permission issues on macOS involve complex flows for Accessibility and Screen Recording, with intimidating dialogs for space preview functionality.
- App distribution uses Lemon Squeezy as a Merchant of Record due to private API usage, requiring reputation verification for setup.
- LLMs assisted in development but lacked UX focus, highlighting the need for human feedback in interface design despite speeding up coding.
- GridLion offers features like easy grid navigation, display-specific settings, and stability, though limitations include no reliable APIs for moving spaces/windows between displays.