FlowShelf

FlowShelf is a free menu-bar application for macOS that serves as a temporary workspace by automatically capturing clipboard items, screenshots, files, and links into a self-cleaning shelf. It combines clipboard management, a floating shelf, screenshot OCR, and window previews within a single lightweight app that runs entirely on-device.

The shelf collects copies, screenshots, files, and links in one place. Users can search its contents and pin selected items while the shelf automatically clears itself after 24 hours to prevent accumulation of clutter. A floating glass shelf can be summoned at the cursor position to hold content for transfer between applications.

The floating shelf supports drag-and-drop operations. Items such as files, text, and images can be placed on it, carried across app switches, and then dragged or pasted into a target application. A shake of the mouse summons the shelf without requiring a hotkey or menu navigation. It also performs OCR to turn screenshots into selectable text and provides window previews for switching.

FlowShelf is delivered as a menu-bar app compatible with macOS 14 and later on both Apple Silicon and Intel hardware. It is notarized by Apple, available for direct download, installable via Homebrew, and described as source-available. The application operates without any subscription.