Tuna

What it does

Tuna is a modal launcher for macOS, built from the ground up as a modern alternative to classic launchers like Quicksilver. It offers four distinct modes: Fuzzy Mode, Combo Mode, Text Mode, and Talk Mode, allowing users to interact with their Mac in different ways depending on the task. The app is 100% native Swift code, ensuring performance and integration with macOS. It supports extensions, with third-party extension support planned for the future. Tuna is free with soft limits, and a Pro version is available for a one-time payment of $49, with no subscriptions.

Who it is for

Tuna is designed for macOS power users who want a fast, customizable launcher to boost productivity. It appeals to users familiar with Quicksilver or similar tools who are looking for a modern, actively developed alternative. Developers and tinkerers may also be interested in the extension system and the open-source-like community around the project.

Why it matters

Launchers are a core productivity tool for many Mac users, but many popular options have become outdated or abandoned. Tuna brings a fresh approach with its modal design, offering flexibility that adapts to different workflows. Its native Swift codebase ensures it feels at home on modern macOS versions (Sequoia or newer), and the one-time purchase model avoids the subscription fatigue common in modern software. By building on the ideas of Quicksilver, Tuna honors a classic while pushing the concept forward.

Launch signal

Tuna is currently in beta, available for download on its website. The launch was announced on Hacker News, where it generated discussion among the macOS community. The developer, known as mikker, is actively building the app and engaging with users on Discord. The Pro version is already available for purchase, indicating a clear monetization path.

Brand and naming

The name "Tuna" is short, memorable, and unrelated to the product's function, which can help it stand out in a crowded market of utility apps. The branding is minimal and modern, with a clean website and a focus on the app's features. The tagline "A new, modern, modal launcher for macOS" clearly communicates its purpose and differentiation. The choice to reference Quicksilver in the description positions Tuna as a spiritual successor, appealing to nostalgia while promising innovation.