VolumeHUD: The classic volume display returns to macOS!

VolumeHUD: The classic volume display returns to macOS!

With the latest update to macOS Tahoe, Apple has significantly revised its Control Center. But this change has left a bitter aftertaste for many users: the usual volume display has given way to a small pop-up window that is hardly larger than a normal notification and also quickly disappears. After 25 years of familiar operation, we now have to rethink and get used to the new, less conspicuous display. But this is exactly where the new app volumeHUD comes into play, which brings back the classic volume display.

Developed by Danny Stewart, volumeHUD features an elegant overlay that displays volume levels during changes. The app appears for a short time and ensures that users immediately see how loud it is before it disappears again. If you want to install the app, you can do so either via the release page or the popular package manager Homebrew with the command “brew install dannystewart/apps/volumehud“ Do it. With this, Stewart brings a piece of nostalgia back to the screens of Mac users.

Installation and features

After installation in the application folder, volumeHUD runs in the background without displaying an icon in the menu bar. To close the app, you simply have to start it again. If you want to save yourself the trouble, you can also set up volumeHUD so that it loads automatically when the system starts. All you have to do is add the app in the system settings under “General > Login Items”.

Although the app only requires two optional permissions - accessibility access and notifications - these are not mandatory. This keeps it easy to use. At the same time, a short notification is displayed when you first start it, explaining how to close the app, but this information is not shown afterwards.

Volume settings made easy

There are additional options for users who want to get more involved with the volume settings on their Mac. All of this is easily accessible from the Apple menu under “System Preferences” and then “Sound” in the sidebar. In the “Output” area you can select the desired output device, be it the internal speaker or an externally connected speaker box. Even the benefits of AirPlay are available to improve the sound quality.

There are also useful sliders here to adjust the volume, alarm tones or the balance of the sound output. For those who frequently work with different output devices, the Audio MIDI Setup app also offers options for finer customization.

It's good that with volumeHUD you not only have the volume at a glance, but you can also quickly access all functions. This way you can stay on the safe side when it comes to enjoying your own music and films. If an update that brings back the obsolete default volume display helps improve the user experience, this little app shouldn't be missed.

For more information about volumeHUD, those interested can visit the official website City of Bremerhaven visit or take a look at the GitHub repo throw. There are also helpful instructions for the sound settings on Mac Apple Support Page.