OpenIn 4.3

Product Introduction

1. OpenIn 4.3 is a macOS utility designed to manage how links, files, and email protocols are opened across installed applications, providing granular control over default app behaviors. It enables users to define rules for opening specific URLs in preferred browsers, launch files in non-default apps, and automate workflows through scripting. The tool integrates with macOS features like Focus modes and supports advanced customization via regular expressions and JavaScript.
2. The core value lies in eliminating friction caused by macOS’s rigid default app assignments, allowing users to optimize their workflow efficiency across personal and professional use cases. It prioritizes flexibility by enabling context-aware rules, modifier-key-based overrides, and integration with browser extensions to maintain consistent link-handling behavior.

Main Features

1. OpenIn allows rule-based handling of URLs, email links (mailto:), and file types, enabling users to create domain-specific rules (e.g., redirect music.apple.com to the Music app) or modifier-key-triggered actions (e.g., holding Option to open in private mode). Rules can be layered, with fallback defaults ensuring no app-selection dialogs appear unless multiple targets are specified.
2. The tool supports URL rewriting using regular expressions (e.g., transforming https:// to music://) and JavaScript automation, exposing environment variables like OPENIN_SOURCE_APP_PATH and OPENIN_KEY_MODIFIERS for scripting workflows. Users can execute zsh scripts to route URLs/files to custom apps or automate tasks based on system context.
3. Integration with macOS Focus modes lets users define “Focus Hints” that activate specific app-routing rules when a Focus (e.g., Work or Personal) is enabled. Browser extensions for Safari, Chrome, and Firefox provide in-page controls to override default link handling without switching browsers.

Problems Solved

1. OpenIn addresses the frustration of macOS enforcing rigid default app assignments, which often leads to accidentally opening links/files in unintended apps (e.g., launching an IDE instead of a text editor for Markdown files). It eliminates the need to manually change default apps through System Preferences for temporary workflows.
2. The tool targets power users, developers, and professionals who juggle multiple browsers (e.g., Chrome for work, Safari for personal), email clients, or specialized apps (e.g., Zoom, music players). It is particularly useful for Setapp subscribers and users managing separate work/personal profiles on a single machine.
3. Typical scenarios include redirecting Zoom meeting links directly to the Zoom app, opening mailto: links in webmail interfaces like Gmail, and ensuring development-related URLs always launch in a browser with developer tools enabled. It also prevents accidental file opens in resource-heavy apps like IDEs by providing an app-selection dialog.

Unique Advantages

1. Unlike alternatives like Choosy or Velja, OpenIn supports non-sandboxed distributions (Web/Setapp versions) with full system integration, including browser extension customization and Focus mode synchronization. The App Store version uses OpenIn Helper to bypass sandbox limitations.
2. Advanced scripting capabilities through zsh and JavaScript allow users to modify URLs dynamically (e.g., adding tracking parameters) or trigger automations (e.g., logging link opens). The JavaScript engine exposes URL components (host, path, query) and context data (source app, modifier keys) for precise control.
3. Competitive advantages include consistent feature parity across distribution channels (App Store, Setapp, direct download), privacy-focused data handling (no telemetry or third-party sharing), and compatibility with Safari Web Apps and Chromium-based browser profiles via command-line arguments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I convert a license between the Mac App Store (MAS) and Web/Setapp versions? No, licenses are platform-specific due to technical differences in sandboxing and distribution. The MAS version requires OpenIn Helper for full functionality, while the Web/Setapp versions operate without restrictions.
2. Are discounts available for press, educators, or students? Yes, the developer offers discounts for press, bloggers, and content creators who can reach a broad audience. Students and educators can request discounts during seasonal promotions (e.g., Black Friday). Contact support@loshadki.app with project details.
3. What distinguishes the App Store, Web, and Setapp versions? The App Store version is sandboxed, requiring OpenIn Helper for system-level integrations like default app assignments. The Web and Setapp versions are non-sandboxed, offering out-of-the-box functionality for advanced features like URL scheme overrides and Focus mode integration.