AppCmd - App Switcher

AppCmd is a minimal Swift-based app switcher for macOS that allows you to instantly switch between applications using the Right Command key.

Features

• Instant Switching: Use Right Command + [Letter] to jump to any running app starting with that letter.
• App Cycling: Repeatedly press the same letter while holding Right Command to cycle through all matching apps.
• Visual Overlay: A modern, translucent UI showing matching apps and your current selection.
• Static Mapping: Assign specific letters to specific apps (e.g., 'O' for Outlook) using Right Command + Option + [Letter].
• Auto-Launch: Static mappings will automatically launch the assigned app if it isn't running.
• Menu Bar Icon: Quick access to Settings and app status.
• HUD Feedback: Optional on-screen notifications for quick switches.

Requirements

• macOS 13 or newer.
• Accessibility permissions (required for global hotkey detection).

Installation (Homebrew)

The easiest way to install and stay updated is via Homebrew:

brew tap clearnote01/tap
brew install appcmd
brew services start appcmd

Note: After installation, you will need to grant Accessibility permissions to appcmd in System Settings → Privacy & Security → Accessibility. The binary is typically located at /opt/homebrew/bin/appcmd.

Build from Source

From the project root:

swift build -c release

The executable will be at .build/release/appcmd.

Usage

• Dynamic Switching: Hold Right Command and press a letter (e.g., S for Safari).
• Custom Assignment: Focus an app, then hold Right Command + Option and press a letter.
• Settings: Click the ⌘ icon in the menu bar and select Settings... to customize themes, HUD feedback, and manage your assignments.

Static assignments are stored in: ~/Library/Application Support/AppCmd/config.json

Auto-start at Login (Manual)

If not using Homebrew services, you can use the provided scripts:

./install-launch-agent.sh

To disable auto-start:

./uninstall-launch-agent.sh

Notes

• Right Command: This tool specifically targets the Right Command key to avoid conflicts with standard system shortcuts.
• Permissions: If the app doesn't seem to respond, ensure it is enabled under System Settings → Privacy & Security → Accessibility.

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Created with love by Utkarsh Raj