Support
Questions, ideas or a problem with Lightwhirl? Write to dreamcomenull@gmail.com. Please mention your Mac model and macOS version.
Photosensitivity warning. Lightwhirl shows flashing lights and fast-moving patterns. If you or anyone watching has photosensitive epilepsy or is sensitive to flashing images, do not use it.
Frequently asked questions
What do I need to run Lightwhirl?
A Mac with macOS 26 or later. Lightwhirl runs on Apple silicon and Intel Macs.
Where can I get it?
Lightwhirl is coming soon to the Mac App Store. It is not available yet.
Which apps does it work with?
Anything that plays sound on your Mac: Music, Spotify, YouTube in a browser, a DJ app or a game. There is no plug-in, no virtual audio driver and nothing to route.
Why does it ask for the System Audio Recording permission?
To hear what your Mac is playing. The audio is analyzed in memory to draw the picture, then discarded. Nothing is recorded, saved or sent anywhere. If you declined the request, you can allow it later in System Settings → Privacy & Security.
The picture barely reacts to the music. What can I do?
Make sure something is actually playing and that Lightwhirl has the System Audio Recording permission. Use ↑ and ↓ to adjust the input gain.
How do I go fullscreen?
Press F or double-click the window. Press Esc to leave fullscreen.
How do I keep one preset on screen?
Presets change on their own on the beat. Press L to lock the current preset, or jump to any of the eight with 1–8. R picks a random one.
What are the keyboard shortcuts?
← → previous / next preset · 1–8 jump to a preset · R random · L lock · ↑ ↓ input gain · F fullscreen · Esc leave fullscreen · H key legend.
Does Lightwhirl respect Reduce Motion?
Yes, Lightwhirl respects the macOS Reduce Motion setting.
Is it safe for people sensitive to flashing light?
No. Lightwhirl shows flashing lights and fast-moving patterns. If you or anyone watching has photosensitive epilepsy or is sensitive to flashing images, do not use it.
Does Lightwhirl collect any data?
No. There is no account, no ads, no analytics and no network access. See the privacy policy.