Key Facts
- ✓ A macOS menu bar app was built to track Claude usage in real-time via API.
- ✓ The application was created to address hitting limits mid-flow too often.
- ✓ The software is signed and notarised by Apple.
- ✓ The project is open source and available on GitHub.
Quick Summary
A new utility has been introduced for macOS users aiming to monitor their usage of the Claude AI API. The application functions as a menu bar item, providing immediate visibility into API consumption levels.
The primary motivation behind this development was to solve the problem of hitting usage limits unexpectedly during active sessions. By offering real-time tracking, the tool allows users to manage their usage proactively. The application is distributed as open source software and has been signed and notarized by Apple, ensuring it meets security standards for macOS environments.
Addressing API Usage Interruptions
The developer behind the project identified a specific pain point for Claude users: hitting limits mid-flow. This interruption disrupts the creative and coding process, prompting the need for a monitoring solution. The resulting application is designed to sit unobtrusively in the macOS menu bar, offering constant feedback on usage metrics.
By leveraging the API directly, the app ensures that the data displayed is current. This approach differs from manual checking, providing a continuous stream of information. The focus is on real-time visibility to prevent workflow disruptions.
Technical Specifications and Security
Security is a significant consideration for any software installed on a personal machine. This application has been signed and notarised by Apple, which acts as a verification step to confirm the software is free from known malicious components. This process provides an added layer of trust for users downloading the tool.
The application is built specifically for the macOS operating system, utilizing the native menu bar interface for a seamless user experience. It integrates with the Claude API to fetch usage data, ensuring that the information presented is accurate and up-to-date.
Availability and Open Source Access
The project is publicly available on GitHub, allowing developers to view the source code, contribute to its development, or download the compiled application. Being open source encourages community collaboration and transparency regarding how the usage data is handled.
In addition to the GitHub repository, the developer maintains a presence on X (formerly known as Twitter). The release of this tool highlights a growing trend of developers creating niche utilities to solve specific workflow challenges associated with AI tools.
