You are a Mac developer, artist, or someone who frequently uses different file types on your Mac, you will know what life was like pre-Snow Leopard. A file created in an application would then re-open within that application using “creator codes,” simple. However, with the release of Snow Leopard, files now tend to open in all sorts of programs and mainly in the previewer.
Magic Launch is designed to bring back control to your files and allow you the ability to control which applications they open in.
How Magic Launch Works
Using a small preferences pane within Magic Launch, you have the ability to set intercept commands every time a file is opened, redirecting it to a location you choose. As its rule-based, the flexibility of the application is extensive. For instance, you can set rules based on file types, file names, or even specific folders. This means that if you have a particular file type that you always want to open in a specific application, you can set that rule once and never worry about it again.
Moreover, Magic Launch allows you to create complex rules that can handle multiple conditions. For example, you can set a rule that opens image files in Photoshop if they are larger than a certain size, but opens smaller images in Preview. This level of customization can significantly streamline your workflow, especially if you work with a variety of file types and applications.
Benefits of Using Magic Launch
One of the key benefits of using Magic Launch is the time saved by not having to manually select the application to open a file. This can be particularly useful for professionals who work with multiple file types and need to switch between different applications frequently. For example, a graphic designer might need to open .psd files in Photoshop, .ai files in Illustrator, and .jpg files in Preview. With Magic Launch, these files will automatically open in the correct application based on the rules you set.
Another significant advantage is the reduction of errors. Without Magic Launch, you might accidentally open a file in the wrong application, which can lead to formatting issues or even data corruption. By ensuring that files always open in the correct application, Magic Launch helps to maintain the integrity of your files.
Additionally, Magic Launch can be a lifesaver for those who work with specialized software. For instance, developers who use different IDEs for different programming languages can set rules to open .py files in PyCharm, .js files in Visual Studio Code, and .java files in IntelliJ IDEA. This ensures that you are always using the best tool for the job, without having to think about it.
If you need to cover the control of your files, Magic Launch is available for $13. This is a small price to pay for the convenience and efficiency it brings to your workflow. Whether you are a developer, artist, or just someone who wants more control over how files open on your Mac, Magic Launch is a valuable tool that can make your life easier.
Via Cult of Mac
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