Lecture Notes: Bringing Windows-like Alt-Tab to macOS

Introduction

• Preference for macOS: Despite preferring macOS for day-to-day use, there are certain Windows features missed, like the Alt-Tab shortcut.
• Command-Tab Limitation: macOS has a Command-Tab for switching applications, but it only cycles through open applications rather than specific windows.

Alt-Tab Application for macOS

• Overview: Lightweight application developed by Lo Luis Lawrence and contributors on GitHub.
• Functionality: Mimics Windows Alt-Tab, allowing cycling through open windows instead of applications on macOS.
• Menu Bar Application: Alt-Tab resides in the macOS menu bar.

Installation

• Website Download: Latest release available on the Alt-Tab website linked to GitHub.
• Homebrew Installation: Can be installed via Homebrew package manager with instructions on the website.

Setup and Permissions

• Permissions Required: Initial setup requests permissions like screen recording and keystrokes access for functionality.
• Purpose of Permissions: Needed for the window switcher menu and thumbnail previews.

Customization Options

• General Settings:

  • Ability to start application at login.
  • Customize menu bar icon with four options or hide it.

• Control Settings:

  • Customize windows shown (e.g., only from current monitor or full-screen apps).
  • Set hotkeys to override macOS defaults (e.g., Command-Tab).
  • Additional hotkeys to modify windows (close, quit, etc.).
  • Dual shortcut settings for different window displays.

• Appearance Settings:

  • Customize look with themes (macOS or Windows 10 theme).
  • Adjust thumbnails, spacing, and screen appearance.

• Policies Settings:

  • Automatic updates and crash reports to developers.

• Blacklist Settings:

  • Blacklist specific windows from appearing in Alt-Tab.

• About & Acknowledgements:

  • Version information and credits to developers.

Performance and Criticism

• Performance Issues:
  • Minor lag on older Macs, especially with many windows.
  • Example: 2015 base MacBook Pro may experience delay.

Conclusion

• Recommendation: Great for users wanting Windows-like Alt-Tab on macOS.
• Free and Open Source: Available for free download; open source for customization and contributions.
• Call to Action: Encouragement to try the app and the possibility of contributing to the project.

Closing Remarks

• Channel Information: Video part of weekly uploads on Top Specs channel.
• Community Engagement: Viewers encouraged to suggest apps for review and explore other channel content.