Desktop App

The desktop app (Windows, macOS, Linux) is an optional client. It loads each server's own web client from that server, each in an isolated session, and adds native notifications, a tray, global hotkeys and a better screen share picker. Users on the browser and on the app share the same server.

Version Compatibility

The app and the server's client must speak the same desktop bridge version. If they do not, the server still loads as a plain website and desktop features are off. The app tells the user which side is outdated, so keep your server updated after app releases.

Add to Desktop App Button

When opened in a browser, the connect screen shows Add to desktop app. It opens sharkord://add-server?url=<your server>. You can use that link yourself, for example in an invite message.

Hotkeys

The desktop app registers hotkeys with the OS directly, without the Bridge.

Push to talk needs key release events, which only the Wayland shortcuts portal provides. Elsewhere, use the Bridge in a browser.

Things to Tell Your Users

• The app is not signed yet. Windows: More info → Run anyway. macOS: System Settings → Privacy & Security → Open Anyway, or xattr -dr com.apple.quarantine /Applications/Sharkord.app.
• Linux auto updates only work with the AppImage.
• macOS does not update itself yet. Unsigned Mac apps cannot install updates, so the app announces each new version and links to its download. Pick the Apple silicon or Intel build to match the Mac.
• System audio in screen shares works on Linux with PipeWire, without echoing the call back, on Windows, and on macOS 14.2 or later.
• App data: %APPDATA%\sharkord-app, ~/Library/Application Support/sharkord-app or ~/.config/sharkord-app. Advanced → Reset App… wipes it.