KnockKnock!

Product Introduction

1. Definition: KnockKnock! is a macOS-native menu-bar video calling application designed for low-latency, one-click communication within trusted groups. It operates as a lightweight utility (119.5 MB) leveraging LiveKit WebRTC technology for real-time streaming.
2. Core Value Proposition: It eliminates complex meeting links, virtual waiting rooms, and full-screen interruptions, enabling spontaneous, focused video interactions (max 5 minutes) for teammates, friends, and family.

Main Features

1. Menu-Bar Interface: Enables one-click video call initiation directly from the macOS menu bar. Users select a contact; the recipient’s Mac instantly "rings" with a system-level notification. Requires macOS 26.0+.
2. LiveKit-Powered Low-Latency Streaming: Utilizes WebRTC protocols via LiveKit’s open-source infrastructure for sub-500ms video/audio transmission, ensuring near real-time conversations without lag.
3. Secure Firebase Authentication: Implements Firebase Auth for end-to-end encrypted sign-in and user management. Supports email verification (v1.5+) with zero user data collection (verified per App Privacy details).
4. Customizable Themes & Floating Windows: Offers in-app theme store (v1.5+) for personalized colors. Calls launch in resizable, non-intrusive floating windows that overlay other apps without monopolizing screen space.
5. 5-Minute Call Limit: Automatically terminates calls after 5 minutes to enforce brevity, reduce scheduling friction, and encourage purposeful, spontaneous connections.

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Overly complex video conferencing workflows (links, passwords, waiting rooms) hinder quick communication. KnockKnock! replaces this with frictionless, direct calling.
2. Target Audience: Remote/hybrid teams needing instant syncs; families/friends desiring casual check-ins; creatives/developers seeking minimal disruption during workflows.
3. Use Cases:
   • Quick teammate check-ins during focused work sessions.
   • Spontaneous family "hellos" without scheduling.
   • Urgent clarifications in collaborative projects requiring visual context.

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet, KnockKnock! requires no calendar integration, no downloads for recipients (Mac-only), and no persistent app window. Its menu-bar integration and 5-minute cap uniquely prioritize speed and minimalism.
2. Key Innovation: Transforms video calls into "digital knocks" – mimicking the simplicity of a physical door knock. This is achieved through system-level notifications, native macOS APIs, and enforced call brevity, redefining micro-interactions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is KnockKnock! really private? Yes. The developer collects no user data (confirmed in App Privacy section). Calls use end-to-end encryption via WebRTC, and authentication relies solely on Firebase Auth with email verification.
2. Can I use KnockKnock! on iPhone or iPad? Currently, KnockKnock! is exclusively available for macOS (version 26.0+). There is no native iOS, iPadOS, or VisionOS app as of its latest release (v1.5.2).
3. What happens if a call exceeds 5 minutes? Calls automatically disconnect at the 5-minute mark. This enforced limit ensures interactions remain concise. There is no option to extend calls within the app.
4. How does the "Away" status work? If your Mac is locked or asleep, contacts see your status as "Away" (implemented in v1.5.2), preventing unnecessary call attempts. Status updates use local system state detection.
5. Are themes free in KnockKnock!? Custom themes are available via in-app purchases (added in v1.5). The base app includes default themes and remains free to download and use for core calling functionality.