Which Macs are supported?

Notchly works on all Macs with a notch — MacBook Pro 14" and 16" (2021+) and MacBook Air (2022+). Requires macOS 14 Sonoma or later.

What's included for free?

File shelf, music controls (all providers), calendar, focus timer (25 min), clipboard history (5 items), bookmarks (3), full screen screenshot, camera overlay, HUD replacement, multi-display support, and up to 2 widgets — all free forever, no account needed.

How does Notchly compare to NotchNook?

Notchly includes the modules currently implemented in code: music, calendar, clipboard, focus timer, file shelf, bookmarks, widgets, command shortcuts, studio tools, sessions, and teleprompter, with a free tier plus one-time Pro unlock.

Is it a one-time purchase or subscription?

One-time purchase of $15 for lifetime access. No subscriptions, no recurring fees. All future updates included.

Productivity · Updated April 2026

15 Mac Productivity Tips for 2026

Whether you're a developer, designer, or power user — these tips will help you get more done on your Mac. From hidden macOS features to the best productivity apps.

1. Turn Your Notch Into a Productivity Hub

Your MacBook's notch doesn't have to be dead space. Apps like Notchly transform it into a smart hub with music controls, clipboard history, a focus timer, calendar, file shelf, and more — all accessible with a hover. It's the single biggest productivity boost you can add to a notched Mac.

Try Notchly Free →

2. Master Clipboard History

Stop losing copied text. A clipboard manager saves everything you copy and lets you paste from history. Notchly includes a built-in clipboard manager (5 items free, 60 with Pro) right in your notch, so you never lose a snippet again.

3. Use the Pomodoro Technique

Work in focused 25-minute sprints followed by 5-minute breaks. The science-backed Pomodoro technique combats burnout and keeps you sharp. Notchly has a built-in Pomodoro timer that lives in your notch — complete with 15, 25, and 50-minute presets.

4. Set Up Keyboard Shortcuts for Everything

Learn macOS keyboard shortcuts: ⌘+Space for Spotlight, ⌘+Tab for app switching, ⌘+` for window switching within apps. Create custom shortcuts in System Settings → Keyboard → Keyboard Shortcuts for frequently used actions.

5. Use Spaces and Mission Control

Organize your work into virtual desktops (Spaces). Swipe up with three fingers or press F3 to enter Mission Control. Create dedicated spaces for coding, communication, design, and browsing.

6. Automate Repetitive Tasks with Shortcuts

The built-in Shortcuts app on macOS lets you automate workflows — resize images, convert files, chain app actions. Combine with Notchly's Command Shortcuts to run shell scripts directly from your notch.

7. Enable Focus Modes

Set up Focus modes in System Settings to filter notifications based on what you're doing. Create a 'Coding' focus that silences Slack, a 'Meeting' focus that allows calendar apps only, etc.

8. Use Quick Note for Instant Capture

Move your cursor to the bottom-right corner of the screen to trigger Quick Note. Capture thoughts instantly without switching apps. For more persistent notes, Notchly Pro includes Quick Todo & Notes right in your notch.

9. Optimize Your File Management

Use Finder tags to color-code projects. Set up Smart Folders for frequently accessed file types. Use Notchly's File Shelf to drag and drop files onto your notch for temporary staging between apps.

10. Split Screen and Window Management

Use macOS native split screen (hold the green button) or invest in a window manager. Tile your windows efficiently to reduce app-switching overhead.

11. Screenshot and Screen Record Efficiently

⌘+Shift+3 captures the full screen, ⌘+Shift+4 captures a selection, ⌘+Shift+5 opens the recording toolbar. Notchly Pro adds region/window screenshots and screen recording with smart cursor zoom directly from your notch.

12. Keep a Quick-Access Bookmark Bar

Store your most-used URLs for one-tap access. Notchly includes Quick Bookmarks (5 free, 40 with Pro) that live in your notch — paste a URL from clipboard and launch it instantly.

13. Save and Restore Desktop Sessions

When switching between projects, save your current app arrangement and restore it later. Notchly Pro's Session Manager captures all running apps, minimizes them, and restores any session with one click.

14. Use a Second Display (or Sidecar)

An external display or iPad via Sidecar dramatically increases your workspace. Multi-display setups work natively with Notchly for consistent access across screens.

15. Review and Reduce Menu Bar Clutter

Consolidate menu bar apps. Use Bartender or similar tools to hide rarely-used icons. Better yet, move key utilities into your notch with Notchly — widgets, battery, clock, and system info all accessible without cluttering the menu bar.

The #1 Tip: Use Your Notch

Notchly turns dead screen space into your most productive area. Music, clipboard, timer, calendar, files — all in one hover.

Download Notchly Free