Itchy

Product Introduction

1. Definition: Itchy is a free macOS notch utility that repurposes the MacBook Pro's screen notch into a dynamic productivity hub. Technically, it operates as a menu bar application leveraging Swift/SwiftUI to render interactive "Nook modules" within the notch area.
2. Core Value Proposition: Itchy eliminates wasted screen space by transforming the static notch into a customizable productivity dashboard, centralizing essential tools (timers, clipboard, media controls) to reduce context switching and enhance macOS workflow efficiency.

Main Features

1. 12 Built-in Nook Modules: Itchy provides pre-built modules accessible via the notch:
   • Pomodoro Timer: Tracks focused work sessions.
   • Now Playing (Beta): Displays media info/controls (requires Accessibility permissions for Chromium browsers).
   • Calendar: Shows upcoming events (requires Calendar Access).
   • Mail: Inbox preview (requires Automation permissions).
   • Clipboard History: Instant access to copy-paste history.
   • Storage: Quick file access/storage within the notch.
   • Notes: Sticky notes visible in the menu bar.
   • Quick Toggles: Adjust screen brightness, mute, volume, mic.
   • Live Activities: Real-time updates for tasks.
   • Weather: Current conditions glance.
   • Bluetooth Devices: Monitor battery/connection status.
   • Prompter: Read scripts during presentations.
     How it works: Modules are SwiftUI views managed by Itchy's core app. Users enable/disable and reorder them via Settings.
2. Custom Module SDK (ItchySDK): Developers can extend functionality using the ItchySDK (open-source on GitHub). Import itchy, build Swift/SwiftUI code into a .bundle macOS plugin, and load it dynamically into Itchy. Supports creating new Nook modules or custom menu tabs.
3. Presentation/Screen Sharing Mode: Itchy automatically hides during screen sharing (e.g., Zoom, QuickTime) to avoid clutter. Users can manually toggle visibility (Control + Option + H for notes). Ensures a clean shared screen.
4. Global Keyboard Shortcuts: Configurable system-wide shortcuts (Control + Option + [Key]) for rapid actions:
   • New Note (N), Toggle Notes Visibility (H), Clipboard Picker (V), Storage Picker (F), Media Controls (P, Left/Right Arrows), Quit (Q).

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Underutilized screen real estate (MacBook notch) and fragmented workflows from switching between apps/widgets.
2. Target Audience:
   • Productivity-focused Mac Users: Professionals (developers, writers, designers) needing quick access to timers, notes, clipboard.
   • Presenters & Content Creators: Utilize the Prompter module for scripts.
   • Mac Power Users: Those seeking deep menu bar customization and automation.
   • Swift/SwiftUI Developers: Interested in building/extending macOS utilities via SDK.
3. Use Cases:
   • Tracking Pomodoro sessions without a separate app window.
   • Pasting from clipboard history directly into any app.
   • Checking calendar/email during full-screen work without switching spaces.
   • Controlling media playback while gaming or presenting.
   • Building custom internal tools (e.g., Jira ticket viewer, internal metrics) via SDK.

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike traditional menu bar apps (limited to icons/dropdowns) or Dashboard widgets, Itchy uniquely integrates multiple interactive tools directly into the physical notch, creating a persistent, space-efficient hub. Competitors lack notch-specific integration and SDK extensibility.
2. Key Innovation: The Nook module architecture and ItchySDK enable limitless customization. Users aren't locked into predefined features; they can build or install plugins using standard Apple development tools (Swift/SwiftUI/Xcode), ensuring privacy (data stays on-device) and workflow specificity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Itchy really free? Does it have hidden costs?
   Yes, Itchy is completely free forever (v0.1.9+). Kuulto AI states no planned paywalls for core functionality. Monetization may focus on enterprise support or curated plugin marketplaces later.
2. What macOS permissions does Itchy require?
   Specific modules need permissions: Location (Weather), Automation (Mail), Full Disk Access/Calendar Access (Calendar), Accessibility (Now Playing with Chromium browsers). Itchy requests these only when enabling the relevant module.
3. Why won't Now Playing work with Chrome/Arc/Edge?
   Chromium browsers require enabling "Media Session Service" in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Automation after granting Accessibility access to Itchy. This allows Itchy to detect browser media playback.
4. How do custom Nook modules work? Are they safe?
   Developers use the ItchySDK (Swift) to build .bundle plugins. Users install these manually or via Settings. Safety depends on the plugin source; since bundles run locally, they pose less risk than web apps but should only be installed from trusted developers.
5. Can I use Itchy on Macs without a notch?
   While designed for notched MacBook Pros (2021+), Itchy may function as a standard menu bar app on older Macs, but core notch-integration features will be unavailable. Official support is for notched models.