menubar

Configure NSStatusItem, NSMenu, and NSPopover for macOS menu bar apps.

Updated Dec 25, 2025

Search Tags:#macos #ui development #appkit #popover #menubar #nsstatusitem

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/mourato/prisma --skill menubar

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: menubar
Source: https://github.com/mourato/prisma/tree/main/.agents/skills/menubar
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/mourato/prisma --skill menubar

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill simplifies the creation and management of macOS menu bar applications, including handling status items, popovers, and floating panels.

Core Features & Use Cases

NSStatusItem Management: Configure and interact with menu bar status items.
Popover Integration: Implement dynamic popovers triggered by menu bar items.
Floating Panels: Create always-visible indicators or utility panels.
Use Case: Develop a custom menu bar application that displays system status and provides quick access to application controls via a popover.

Quick Start

Use the menubar skill to configure an NSStatusItem with a popover.

Frequently Asked Questions about menubar

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I create a macOS menu bar app with NSStatusItem and a popover?▼

To create a macOS menu bar app, configure an NSStatusItem within NSStatusBar and attach an NSPopover triggered by the item. This skill provides integration patterns to manage the popover display and menu bar interactions.

Can I build an always-visible floating panel in a menu bar app?▼

Yes, you can build an always-visible floating panel using non-activating panels set to screen saver window levels. This pattern is useful for creating persistent indicators like a recording status in your menu bar app.

How do I add dynamic menu items and context menu behavior to an NSStatusItem?▼

You add dynamic menu items and context menu behavior to an NSStatusItem by utilizing NSMenu integration patterns. This skill addresses configuring dynamic items and reflecting state changes in the menu bar icon and tooltips.

Does this skill support updating the menu bar icon and tooltip state dynamically?▼

Yes, updating the menu bar icon and tooltip state dynamically is supported. The skill provides patterns for state reflection, ensuring your NSStatusItem accurately represents the current application status.

What is the best way to implement a utility popover triggered from the macOS menu bar?▼

The best way to implement a utility popover from the macOS menu bar is by binding an NSPopover instance to an NSStatusItem action. This skill outlines the specific AppKit integration needed to manage the popover's presentation.

Are there limitations when using non-activating panels for menu bar indicators?▼

When using non-activating panels for menu bar indicators, you must manage screen saver window levels carefully to ensure the panel remains visible. This skill provides the necessary patterns for handling these specific floating panel constraints.