Desktop Companions (macOS & Windows)

Spotlight Quick Capture Architecture#

The LaterBox desktop companion features a floating Spotlight-style quick capture modal:

• Global Hotkey Daemon: Registers native OS keybinds (⌥ Space on Mac, Ctrl+Alt+Space on Windows) using native platform channels.
• Frameless Window: The window operates in a borderless, translucent floating mode centered horizontally in the upper third of the primary screen.
• Instant Focus: When invoked, the window forces OS focus directly into the URL input field.

Window Layering & Native File Pickers#

To support attaching local screenshots, PDFs, and files from desktop:

• Layer Priority Management: The Quick Capture bar uses setAlwaysOnTop(true) to remain above full-screen IDEs and browser windows.
• Modal Guard: When the user opens the native OS file picker (pickFiles()), the window manager temporarily lowers setAlwaysOnTop(false) and sets isModalOpen = true to prevent the capture bar from auto-dismissing on blur.
• Focus Restoration: Once a file is selected or canceled, setAlwaysOnTop(true) and focus are immediately restored.

System Tray & Background Running#

• Closing the main window minimizes LaterBox to the system tray / menu bar.
• The global hotkey daemon continues operating with minimal RAM consumption (< 40MB idle).
• Clicking the tray icon reveals quick status, recent items, and quick settings.