How Backglow works
Backglow is a small menu bar app for the glowing logo on your MacBook Pro. Here's what it does on your Mac, and how to remove it.
The basics
Backglow is signed with a Developer ID and notarized by Apple. It has no accounts, no ads and no analytics in the app. It's made by Juan Buis, and it isn't made by or affiliated with Apple.
It goes online to check for updates and, if you buy Pro, to check your license. More in the privacy policy.
Music
Music listens to what your Mac plays, not the room, and only works out how hard the bass is hitting. It doesn't use the microphone, and no audio is recorded, saved or sent anywhere. macOS asks your permission first.
Agents
Agents adds a few hooks to Claude Code's settings, so Backglow knows when Claude is working, waiting or needs you. It never sees your prompts or code. Disconnect in Settings removes the hooks.
Does it need my password?
Only for one optional setting, Full brightness in any room. It stays on until you turn it off in Settings, so turn it off before you delete Backglow. Everything else, including turning the logo off, works without a password.
Battery and heat
Effects pause when the display sleeps, when your Mac is locked and in Low Power Mode, though Agents keeps working so it can still tell you when Claude needs you. Keep glowing when closed is off by default and has its own limits.
How to remove it
- Turn the logo on, if it's off.
- In Settings, turn off Full brightness in any room and Open at login, and click Disconnect for Agents.
- If you have Pro, click Remove from This Mac.
- Quit Backglow and delete it from Applications.
Questions? Email help@backglow.app.