This week, Growl, the open-source notification application for Mac systems, has jumped to version 1.3 and is now available to download from the Apple App Store for $1.99.
New features in the latest release include the ability to personalize your notifications’ look and feel to help you make them more application-friendly and fit your needs exactly. Other features in the update include a “rollback” feature similar to iOS 5, and a history log.
Enhanced Personalization and Customization
One of the standout features of Growl 1.3 is its enhanced personalization options. Users can now customize the appearance of their notifications to better match their individual preferences and the aesthetics of their applications. This includes changing the color, font, and size of the notification text, as well as adjusting the background and border styles. For those with skills in web technologies such as CSS, XHTML, and JavaScript, the possibilities for customization are virtually limitless. You can create a Growl style that looks exactly how you want it to, ensuring that your notifications are not only functional but also visually appealing.
New Functionalities and Improvements
In addition to aesthetic enhancements, Growl 1.3 introduces several new functionalities designed to improve the user experience. The “rollback” feature is particularly noteworthy. Similar to the rollback feature in iOS 5, it allows users to revert to a previous state if they encounter issues with the latest update. This can be a lifesaver for those who rely heavily on Growl for their daily notifications and need a quick way to resolve any problems that arise.
Another significant addition is the history log. This feature keeps a record of all notifications received, allowing users to review past alerts at their convenience. This can be particularly useful for tracking important messages or reminders that may have been missed initially.
Growl 1.3 will only support OS X Lion, and the developers advise that upgraders use the Growl uninstaller to remove Growl 1.2 before installing the Mac App Store version. Preferences and customizations will not be affected by this process, ensuring a smooth transition to the new version.
Versatile Notification Options
Growl allows you to receive notifications in several ways, either on screen, via email, or even via speech. This versatility makes it an invaluable tool for a wide range of users, from those who need immediate visual alerts to those who prefer auditory notifications. For example, if you’re working on a project and don’t want to be distracted by visual pop-ups, you can set Growl to notify you via speech. Conversely, if you’re in a noisy environment, email notifications might be more effective.
Moreover, Growl’s ability to integrate with various applications means that you can receive notifications from multiple sources in one centralized location. Whether it’s an alert from your email client, a reminder from your calendar app, or a notification from a social media platform, Growl ensures that you stay informed without having to switch between different applications.
In conclusion, Growl 1.3 offers a host of new features and improvements that make it a must-have for Mac users who rely on timely and customizable notifications. With its enhanced personalization options, new functionalities like the rollback feature and history log, and versatile notification methods, Growl continues to set the standard for notification applications on the Mac platform.
Source: Macnn
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.