Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about opening MenuSearch, what it searches, the calculator, and what it needs from your Mac.
Using MenuSearch
The shortcut, search results and the calculator.
How do I open it?
Press Option-Space anywhere, or click the magnifying glass in the menu bar. Press the shortcut again, or Escape, to close it.
Can I change the shortcut?
Not in this version. It’s fixed at Option-Space. If another app already uses that shortcut, MenuSearch’s right-click menu tells you.
What does it search?
Apps and files in your Mac’s Spotlight index. Recently opened files come first. System folders, Library folders, app bundle contents and developer clutter such as node_modules and build folders are left out. iCloud Drive files are included.
How do I show a file in Finder instead of opening it?
Select it and press Command-Return.
What math can it do?
Arithmetic, powers, percentages (“15% of 80”, “84.50 + 20%”), mod, factorials, square and cube roots, trig with degrees, logarithms, rounding, and the constants pi, e and tau. Press Return or Command-C to copy the result as a plain number.
Which search engine does it use for web searches?
Google. Anything that looks like a web address opens directly in your default browser instead.
Permissions and privacy
What MenuSearch needs, which Macs it runs on, and your searches.
Does it need Accessibility or other permissions?
No. The global shortcut uses a system hotkey that needs no Accessibility access. The only optional setting is Open at Login.
Does it send my searches anywhere?
No. Searches stay on your Mac. Something goes online only when you pick a web result, which opens in your browser.
Does it run on Intel Macs?
The current build is for Apple silicon only and needs macOS 14 Sonoma or later.
How do I get MenuSearch?
MenuSearch is in beta. Leave your email under Join the beta and we’ll send you a download link as soon as there’s a beta build for you to try.
Didn’t find your answer?
Open a ticket and we’ll reply by email.
MenuSearch is an independent app and is not affiliated with, endorsed or sponsored by Apple Inc. Spotlight, Finder, Mac and macOS are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries.