Contexts for Mac

Contexts for Mac replaces OS X's default app switcher with a new one that is more customizable. In addition to having the ability to list all running applications, this premium product assigns a number to each open window, allowing you to jump straight to any of them with a keyboard shortcut. Another feature worth noting is a sidebar that lets you switch between windows just by using a mouse or a trackpad.

While it's running, you will notice that Contexts for Mac doesn't feature a main window or dock or menu bar icons, but rather a switcher panel and sidebar, both of which can have their width adjusted. Although the sidebar is supposed to automatically hide when using fullscreen apps, in our tests it remained visible. A nice feature of the app is the grouping and numbering of windows through the sidebar as you can instantly access windows by pressing the unique numbers assigned to them while holding an adjustable modifier key. Another noteworthy shortcut is the ability to type a part of a window title, filtering the app list in the process.

If you're often dealing with numerous open windows and want to jump between quickly, Contexts for Mac can make your life easier. This app's window numbering features are fast and convenient, as are its other features. It may take you some time to get used to the app's unusual interface, but otherwise you'll have no problems with it.

Editors' note: This is a review of the trial version of Contexts for Mac 1.1.

• Improved compatability with Mavericks 10.9.5 and Yosemite beta. This is the last release to support Lion and Mountain Lion.
• The overlay style is always used for scrollbars.
• Fixed: Sometimes the wrong window would appear at the top of the recently used windows list. This should now work correctly.
• Android emulator and Join.me windows are correctly tracked.
• Drobo windows are ignored.