Shortap

Shortap is a macOS utility that lets you trigger actions by lightly tapping the left or right side of a compatible MacBook. It uses the laptop's built-in motion sensors, adding a physical gesture for everyday commands without using the keyboard or trackpad.

Six customizable tap gestures

Assign separate actions to single, double, and triple taps on each side of the MacBook. Shortap offers more than 50 built-in actions, including:

• Capture screenshots to the desktop or clipboard, or select a screen area.
• Copy and paste text, control music playback, and adjust volume or brightness.
• Arrange windows, switch Spaces, open apps or websites, and lock the screen.
• Toggle Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Focus, and launch Quick Note.

You can also trigger any workflow created in Apple's Shortcuts app. Adjustable sensitivity helps reduce accidental triggers from typing or normal trackpad use.

Compatibility and practical limits

Shortap requires macOS 14.6 or later and a supported Apple silicon MacBook: MacBook Air M2 or newer, or MacBook Pro M1 Pro/M1 Max or newer. Intel Macs and desktop Macs are not supported. Tap detection works only while the MacBook is open and running, and reliability can vary by device or surface. Some actions require macOS Accessibility or Automation permissions.

Gesture detection and preferences are processed locally, without usage analytics according to the developer. Purchases and app updates use external services.

Shortap is sold as a one-time purchase starting at $5, with licenses for one, two, or three Macs. Updates for the lifetime of the maintained product and a 14-day refund policy are included; the refund period is not a free trial.