Everything you need to know about installing, configuring, and using CalmHands effectively.
All camera data is processed locally using Apple's Vision framework. An internet connection is not required, as no data is transmitted or stored externally.
Only detection statistics (dates/counts) and app settings are stored locally. No images or personal data are saved.
CalmHands only requests camera access (required) and optional login items for auto-start.
CalmHands will request camera permissions on first launch. Grant access to enable nail biting detection.
Right-click the menu bar icon for quick access to start/stop tracking, show dashboard, or quit the app.
CalmHands uses Apple's Vision framework to detect nail biting gestures. When detected, a gentle full-screen overlay appears with multiple dismissal options (click, auto-dismiss, or detection-based).
Check camera permissions in System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Camera. Restart CalmHands if needed.
Enable "Auto Optimize Processing Rate" in settings and lower detection sensitivity.
Adjust detection sensitivity (1-5 scale) and ensure good lighting conditions with face clearly visible to camera.
Yes, CalmHands is completely free and open source. You can download, use, and modify it without any cost. The source code is available on GitHub.
Generally no, as macOS only allows one app to access the camera at a time. Close other camera apps before using CalmHands.
Detection accuracy depends on lighting conditions, camera positioning, and sensitivity settings. The app uses Apple's Vision framework with smart filtering to minimize false positives while maintaining sensitivity to actual nail biting gestures.
Currently, overlay customization is limited, but you can adjust dismissal behavior (auto-dismiss, manual, or detection-based) and enable/disable overlays in the settings.
Yes, CalmHands can run in the background and continue monitoring when the dashboard is closed, as long as it's running in the menu bar. It will show overlay alerts even when the dashboard isn't visible.
CalmHands includes an automatic update checker that verifies releases from the official GitHub repository. You can also manually check for updates in the dashboard or download new releases from GitHub.
CalmHands includes smart power management that automatically reduces processing when on battery power. You can also manually adjust processing rates and sensitivity to optimize battery usage.
CalmHands collects no personal data. It only stores detection statistics (dates and counts) locally on your device, plus your app settings. No images, videos, or personal information are stored or transmitted.
Try adjusting the sensitivity setting, improving lighting conditions, ensuring your face is clearly visible to the camera, and checking that hands are in the camera's field of view. The app works best with good lighting and clear camera positioning.