Files & sharing
File Shelf and AirDrop in the Mac Notch
To stage files in the Mac notch, drag them onto the notch. They wait on the shelf for as long as you choose, from an hour to forever, then drag them into any app or drop them on AirDrop. Keep a copy, or just a link to the original. Nothing is uploaded. Brim is $4.99, once.
The problem
Files you need in two minutes end up as a Desktop pile, or in a Finder window you have to find again.
How it works in the notch
- 1
Drag onto the notch. The notch outlines itself as a drop target. Let go and the file is on the shelf.
- 2
Choose how long it stays. Settings → Shelf: an hour, a day, a week, or until you remove it.
- 3
AirDrop it. Drop a file on AirDrop to send it to a nearby device.
- 4
Drag it out. Drag into Mail, Slack or Finder. Hold ⌥ while dragging to remove it from the shelf.
Copy or link
With Keep a copy on, Brim copies dropped files so they’re still there if the original moves. Turn it off and the shelf keeps a link instead.
When another app is the better choice
Use Finder for folders, tags and search. If a shelf is the only thing you want, Notchy has a free one; see Brim vs Notchy. For text, use clipboard history.
Privacy notes
Shelf files stay on your Mac. There’s no Brim cloud, so nothing is synced or uploaded. Read the privacy policy.
Questions
- Are shelf files uploaded?
- No. They stay on your Mac.
- How long do files stay?
- As long as you choose in Settings → Shelf.
- Can I AirDrop without Finder?
- Yes. Drop the file on AirDrop in the shelf.
- Does dragging out move the original?
- No. The original stays where it was. Hold ⌥ while dragging out to also remove it from the shelf.
- Is the shelf a subscription?
- No. It’s included in the one-time $4.99 license.
- Does this replace Finder?
- No. It stages a few files for your next drag or AirDrop.