Key Press Viewer for macOS

Product Introduction

1. Key Press Viewer for macOS is a utility application designed to display keyboard inputs in real time during screen sharing, presentations, or video recordings. It visually overlays pressed keys on the screen, including standard alphanumeric inputs and system-specific function keys like brightness or volume controls. The app integrates with macOS input monitoring to ensure accurate detection without storing or transmitting keystroke data.
2. The core value lies in enhancing transparency and engagement during live demonstrations by making keyboard interactions visible to audiences. It prioritizes user privacy by operating locally without data collection or network access, making it suitable for secure environments.

Main Features

1. The app displays keystrokes in real time with language-specific key labels based on the active input source, ensuring compatibility with multilingual keyboard layouts. It supports both lowercase and uppercase characters, including modifier keys like Shift, Command, and Control.
2. Users can position the keystroke overlay in four modes: free-floating placement, vertical alignment, horizontal alignment, or fixed at the screen’s bottom edge. This flexibility accommodates diverse screen layouts and presentation formats.
3. The app automatically adapts to system-wide dark or light mode settings and employs high-contrast color schemes for optimal visibility against varying backgrounds. It functions seamlessly in full-screen applications and during screen recording sessions.

Problems Solved

1. The app addresses the challenge of demonstrating keyboard workflows during live presentations or tutorials where viewers cannot directly see the presenter’s physical keyboard. It eliminates guesswork about which keys are being pressed.
2. Primary users include educators creating instructional videos, streamers broadcasting software tutorials, and professionals conducting product demos that involve macOS workflows.
3. Typical scenarios include coding tutorials where shortcut keys are critical, live-streamed design sessions requiring precise tool shortcuts, and remote training sessions where visual clarity of inputs is essential.

Unique Advantages

1. Unlike similar tools, Key Press Viewer does not require persistent permissions or background processes, reducing system resource usage. It operates exclusively within macOS’s sandboxed environment with no external dependencies.
2. The app uniquely differentiates between password fields and regular text inputs, automatically hiding keystrokes during password entry to enhance security. This feature is not commonly found in basic keystroke visualizers.
3. Competitive advantages include a one-time purchase model without subscriptions, compliance with macOS privacy protocols, and a lightweight design (405.6 KB) that minimizes memory usage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I grant input monitoring permissions for the app? After installation, follow the in-app prompt to open System Settings, enable the toggle for Key Press Viewer under Input Monitoring, then restart the app. This grants necessary access without compromising system security.
2. Does the app record or transmit my keystrokes? No, the app processes keystrokes locally and does not store, log, or transmit any input data. It lacks network access capabilities as verified by its privacy policy.
3. What macOS versions are supported? The app requires macOS 12.0 or later, ensuring compatibility with recent security frameworks and input monitoring APIs. It is optimized for Apple Silicon and Intel-based Macs.