OpenLink - Smart Browser Picker for macOS

OpenLink is a native macOS application that gives you control over how web links open on your Mac. By registering as your default browser, it intercepts link clicks from any application and presents a lightweight picker, allowing you to choose the specific browser or app for that URL.

Why Use OpenLink?

We often use different browsers for different tasks. Chrome for development, Safari for personal browsing, or specific apps for certain links. macOS defaults to opening everything in one browser, forcing you to copy-paste links manually. OpenLink solves this by letting you decide on the fly, right at your cursor, streamlining your workflow and saving time.

Key Features

• Browser Picker Popup: A clean, native popup appears instantly at your cursor position when you click a link.
• App Discovery: Automatically scans your system to find all apps that can handle web links, including browsers and specialized tools.
• Smart Organization: Real browsers are prioritized at the top, and you can star your favorite for quick access.
• Full Customization: Hide apps you don’t use, and drag-and-drop to reorder the list to match your preference.
• Quick Actions: Easily copy the URL to your clipboard directly from the popup.
• System Integration: Supports Light and Dark mode, and integrates seamlessly with macOS as the default browser handler.

How It Works

1. Intercept: When you click a link in Mail, Slack, or any other app, OpenLink catches the request.
2. Select: A small window appears next to your mouse pointer, listing your available browsers.
3. Launch: Click your desired browser (or press a shortcut), and the link opens immediately in that app.

User Interface & Options

OpenLink is designed to feel like a part of macOS:

• The Popup: Minimalist design showing the target URL and your list of apps.
• Settings Dashboard:
  • Apps Tab: Manage visibility, favorites, and sorting order.
  • General Tab: Configure startup behavior and default browser registration.
  • Menu Bar: Quick access to settings and rescanning options.

Technical Details

OpenLink is built natively for macOS using modern Apple technologies:

• Language: Written entirely in Swift and SwiftUI for performance and safety.
• Core Integration: Uses AppKit and CoreServices to handle system-level URL events reliably.
• Lifecycle: Implements ServiceManagement for reliable “Launch at Login” functionality.
• Storage: User preferences are stored locally using UserDefaults, ensuring fast access and privacy.
• Sandboxing: Operates within macOS security constraints while maintaining necessary system integrations.

Privacy & Security

OpenLink is built with a privacy-first architecture:

• No Tracking: The app does not collect, store, or transmit any user data.
• No Network Requests: OpenLink never connects to the internet; it only passes URLs to your local apps.
• Local Processing: All logic happens on your machine. The URLs you click never leave your device until you send them to a browser.

System Requirements

• OS: macOS 14.0 (Sonoma) or later
• Architecture: Native support for both Apple Silicon (M-series) and Intel Macs

Get Started

Take control of your links today. Download OpenLink and set it as your default browser to experience a smarter way to browse on macOS.

Download OpenLink

OpenLink brings the flexibility of choice to every link you click. Stop juggling browsers and let OpenLink handle the routing for you.