The MacOS community has been vocal about persistent frustrations with Apple's native window management system, particularly in multi-monitor setups, as revealed in discussions surrounding the launch of FlashSpace, a new virtual workspace manager. Users are increasingly seeking alternatives to address limitations in the native MacOS Spaces functionality.
Native MacOS Window Management Limitations
A significant pain point emerging from user discussions centers around the basic functionality of MacOS Spaces and window management. The dock's utility has been questioned, with users pointing out its ineffectiveness in displaying window status and location. The introduction of Stage Manager has further complicated matters by consuming additional screen real estate without addressing core usability issues.
Key User Pain Points:
- Dock functionality limitations
- Unreliable window restoration
- Slow workspace switching animations
- Multi-window app management
- Stage Manager screen real estate usage
Multi-Monitor Workspace Challenges
While MacOS offers certain advantages in multi-monitor setups, such as independent virtual desktop switching between monitors, users report persistent issues with window restoration and app management. A particularly frustrating aspect is the system's inability to reliably restore windows to their original spaces after a restart, affecting popular browsers like Safari and Chrome.
The biggest pain point with macOS spaces is how it handles multiple windows of the same app. It drives me crazy.
Window Management Solutions and Trade-offs
The community has explored various solutions, from tiling window managers to space replacements, but each comes with its own set of compromises. Users report that tiling window managers often introduce glitches and unexpected behaviors, especially when dealing with popup windows or non-standard applications. The discussion reveals a preference for solutions that enhance rather than completely override native functionality.
Performance vs. Animation Debate
A recurring theme in the community discussion is the impact of system animations on workspace switching performance. While some users have attempted to address this through the Reduce Motion accessibility setting, this solution creates new problems for developers and users who need to work with web animations. The community has expressed a strong desire for Apple to provide more granular control over these animations without requiring third-party solutions.
The ongoing discussion highlights a broader tension between Apple's design philosophy and power users' needs for efficient window management tools. While third-party solutions continue to emerge, the community consensus suggests a need for more fundamental improvements to MacOS's native window management capabilities.
Reference: FlashSpace: A Blazingly Fast Virtual Workspace Manager for macOS