Solace

Product Introduction

1. Definition: Solace is a macOS menu bar utility (category: system enhancement software) that automates display adaptation using solar cycles, weather data, and user preferences. It dynamically adjusts dark/light mode, color temperature, and wallpapers without subscriptions or data collection.
2. Core Value Proposition: Solace eliminates manual screen adjustments by synchronizing your Mac’s display with environmental conditions, reducing eye strain and enhancing productivity through context-aware automation.

Main Features

1. Solar Scheduling: Uses geolocation (processed locally via CoreLocation) to calculate daily sunrise/sunset times. Switches between light/dark modes at solar events with customizable offsets (±2 hours). Seasons automatically recalibrate timing via astronomical algorithms.
2. Weather-Aware Dark Mode: Integrates Apple WeatherKit to activate dark mode during overcast/stormy conditions. Monitors real-time precipitation, cloud cover (>75%), and UV index—switching modes even at midday without internet after initial data fetch.
3. Wallpaper Sync: Assigns unique wallpapers per display for light/dark modes. Leverages macOS native APIs to switch images instantly during appearance transitions, with optional dimming to reduce glare. Supports unlimited monitors.
4. Evening Warmth: Gradually shifts color temperature from 6500K (daylight) to 2700K (candlelight) over user-defined periods. Runs independently via CoreDisplay framework, resetting automatically at sunrise. Adjustable start time and warmth intensity (2700K–4600K).

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Fragmented tools requiring manual dark mode toggling, wallpaper management, and blue-light reduction—leading to inconsistent experiences and eye fatigue.
2. Target Audience:
   • Digital professionals (developers, designers) needing multi-display harmony during long sessions.
   • Health-conscious users seeking automated blue-light reduction.
   • Privacy-focused individuals avoiding data-tracking utilities.
3. Use Cases:
   • Auto-enabling dark mode during sudden thunderstorms.
   • Syncing sunset-based warmth transitions for night work.
   • Switching wallpapers across home-office monitors at dusk.

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unifies 4 functionalities (dark mode scheduling, color temp, wallpaper sync, weather adaptation) outperforming single-task competitors like f.lux (color-only) or Umbra (wallpaper-only). Solace’s weather integration has no direct rivals.
2. Key Innovation: On-device solar calculations ensure zero data leaks. Weather-aware logic uses hyperlocal thresholds (e.g., 75% rain probability) for precision, while competitors lack environmental triggers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How does Solace automate dark mode switching?
   Solace uses solar positioning (via local geolocation), custom schedules, or real-time weather data to trigger light/dark mode transitions without manual input.
2. Is Solace compatible with multiple monitors?
   Yes, Solace supports unlimited displays with per-screen wallpaper assignment and synchronized appearance switching during mode changes.
3. Does Solace collect user data?
   No. All location processing and solar calculations occur on-device. Weather checks use Apple WeatherKit anonymously—zero data storage or tracking.
4. Can I use Solace offline?
   Solar scheduling and custom modes work fully offline. Weather-aware features require occasional internet for Apple WeatherKit updates.
5. How does Solace differ from macOS Night Shift?
   Solace adds weather-triggered dark mode, multi-display wallpaper syncing, and solar scheduling—unlike Night Shift’s basic color-temperature control.