NotchNook was one of the first polished notch apps — a paid utility with a file shelf, music controls and a calendar. Lovely design, but development has slowed and there's no on-device AI.
Feature comparison
| Feature | NotchNest | NotchNook |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Free | Paid (one-time) |
| Distribution | Mac App Store (sandboxed) | Direct download |
| AI clipboard (on-device) | Yes | No |
| Calendar + AI briefings | Yes | calendar only |
| Quick Notes with AI | Yes | No |
| Pomodoro timer | Yes | No |
| Music control | Yes | Yes |
| Drag-to-AirDrop / File-Tray | Yes | Yes |
| Camera mirror | Yes | No |
| Works on notchless Macs | Yes | partial |
| Active updates (2026) | Yes | slowed |
| Localised (EN/DE/ZH) | Yes | EN only |
Try NotchNest free
Ten widgets in one notch. macOS 14+. No account, no subscription.
The verdict
If you want the broadest free feature set with on-device Apple Intelligence and App Store sandboxing, NotchNest is the stronger pick today. NotchNook remains a tasteful option if you already own it, but it hasn't kept pace on AI or update cadence.
Frequently asked
Is NotchNest a good NotchNook alternative?
Yes. NotchNest covers NotchNook's core features — file tray, music, calendar — and adds AI clipboard, Pomodoro, Quick Notes with AI, and a camera mirror, all free and sandboxed via the Mac App Store.
Is NotchNook still being updated?
As of mid-2026, NotchNook updates have slowed considerably. NotchNest ships regular updates and added on-device Apple Intelligence features.
Which is cheaper, NotchNest or NotchNook?
NotchNest is free on the Mac App Store. NotchNook is a paid app. Both avoid subscriptions.
Can I switch from NotchNook to NotchNest?
Yes — they run independently. Install NotchNest free, disable NotchNook, and you keep all your notch widgets plus the extra AI tools.