How to Manage Settings in macOS Menu Bar Apps with SwiftUI?

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Managing Settings in macOS Menu Bar Apps with SwiftUI


When developing a macOS menu bar application using SwiftUI, integrating settings functionality can often present unique challenges. In this guide, we will address the following two common issues:

1. How to bring the settings app to the foreground if it's already open?
2. How to handle the app icon display on the dock when the settings window is opened?

Let’s dive into these challenges and explore effective solutions.

Understanding the Challenges

Issue 1: Bringing the Settings App to Front


The first issue arises when using SettingsLink to direct users to the settings. If the settings app is already open, users may find it frustrating when it does not appear in the foreground. This behavior is due to macOS’s default handling of application windows, which does not automatically re-activate them if they’re already open.

Issue 2: Managing Dock Icon Visibility


The second challenge concerns displaying the application icon in the dock when users navigate to settings via the SettingsLink. You've attempted various methods, including modifying the Info.plist and adjusting NSApp.setActivationPolicy(). However, identifying when the settings window is opened or closed can be tricky as there isn’t a straightforward notification system for this state.

Solution to Issue 1: Bringing the Settings App Forward


To ensure the Settings app is brought to the foreground if it’s open, you can leverage the NSRunningApplication class from the AppKit framework. Here’s a step-by-step solution:

Step 1: Create a Function to Manage the Settings Link


First, create a helper function that checks for running applications and brings the settings window to the front:

import AppKit

func openSettings() {
let settingsApp = NSRunningApplication.runningApplications(withBundleIdentifier: "com.apple.systempreferences").first
if let settings = settingsApp {
settings.activate(options: [.activateIgnoringOtherApps])
} else {
NSWorkspace.shared.open(URL(fileURLWithPath: "/Applications/System Preferences.app"))
}
}

Step 2: Modify Your Menu Bar Item


In the MenuBarExtra section of your app, use the openSettings() function:

MenuBarExtra("Test", systemImage: "star.fill") {
Button("Open settings") { openSettings() }
}

Solution to Issue 2: Handling Dock Icon Visibility


To control the dock icon based on the settings window’s state, you'll want to manage the application's activation policy dynamically. We will also introduce observers for the application state changes.

Step 1: Modify Info.plist


Continue using the Application is agent key in your Info.plist but ensure it’s set correctly:

<key>Application is agent</key>
<true/>

Step 2: Add State Observers to the AppDelegate


In your AppDelegate, set up a listener to monitor the settings window state:

import Cocoa

final class AppDelegate: NSObject, NSApplicationDelegate {
var settingsWindowObserver: NSObjectProtocol?

func applicationDidFinishLaunching(_ aNotification: Notification) {
NSApp.setActivationPolicy(.accessory)
setupSettingsWindowObserver()
}

func setupSettingsWindowObserver() {
settingsWindowObserver = NotificationCenter.default.addObserver(forName: NSWindow.didBecomeKeyNotification, object: nil, queue: .main) { notification in
if let window = notification.object as? NSWindow, window.title == "Settings" {
NSApp.setActivationPolicy(.regular)
}
}
}

deinit {
if let observer = settingsWindowObserver {
NotificationCenter.default.removeObserver(observer)
}
}
}

Summary


By implementing the above solutions, you'll effectively handle both the foreground issue of the settings application and control how your app icon interacts with the macOS dock. Remember to test thoroughly to ensure a seamless user experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I create settings without a separate window?


, you can implement a settings popover directly within your menu bar app using SwiftUI views instead of opening System Preferences.

2. What other resources can help in SwiftUI app development?


Explore Apple's official SwiftUI documentation, join developer forums, and communities like Stack Overflow for additional support.

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