Tell

Tell is a native macOS application that presents system statistics as interactive desktop objects, offering a visually engaging way to monitor real-time information such as audio, network, CPU, shortcuts, and battery status. Designed for users seeking an ambient and customizable overview of their Mac's performance, Tell transforms these system signals into live 3D objects that animate and react according to the current state of the machine. The application also features Centre Glance, providing a compact, glanceable view at the center of the desktop for quick access to key stats.

Tell operates from the macOS menu bar, allowing users to summon or hide desktop modules as needed. Modules can be freely arranged and customized, with options to assign different object styles and map each module’s function through the settings. The platform supports a transparent desktop layer, distinct from the built-in macOS widget stack, and offers a Floating Mode to hide window frames so modules sit directly on the desktop layer. Users can pin important signals above other application windows for persistent visibility.

The application includes modules for monitoring battery percentage and charging state, visualizing audio currently playing across Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, and browser audio, and detecting audio devices like headphones or speakers (with animated detection in the DMG version). Network monitoring covers upload, download, ping, and connection state in real time, while CPU activity is displayed through responsive animated objects. Additional modules allow users to create floating desktop shortcuts for apps, folders, and workflows, as well as interactive floating clocks for ambient time display. An object library enables swapping the visual style of each module without changing its telemetry, with available collections such as The Lab, Retro, Minimal, and Clocks.

Tell is available as a one-time purchase for $4.99, with no subscription required and free updates included. Users can choose between a direct download DMG version, which comes with a lower price and a license key sent by email, or a Mac App Store version with automatic updates and reinstall support. The application requires macOS 14 or later and supports both Apple Silicon and Intel Macs.