AirBuddy 3 Released with New Action HUD, Widgets, Now Playing, and Enhanced Automation

AirBuddy 3 Major Update

AirBuddy 3 is now available for Mac, bringing more than 150 new features and improvements. The application, initially launched in 2019 for AirPods management, has expanded its functionality to include other Bluetooth devices, battery monitoring, and device handoff between Macs.

Redesigned Interface and Widgets

The new version features a redesigned Action HUD, which can be positioned anywhere on the screen and switched between large and small layouts. Users can customize the information displayed in the Action HUD, including battery alerts. The app also includes a redesigned Dashboard with Liquid Glass support on macOS Tahoe and later. Custom widgets are available for desktop display, showing device battery levels, AirPods controls, and media playback.

Now Playing and Media Control

A significant addition in AirBuddy 3 is the Now Playing feature, which allows users to view artwork and playback information, and control media from the desktop, Lock Screen, Action HUD, or macOS widgets. This custom-made implementation supports layered depth effects, color-matched designs, and suggests recent content when no media is playing. It can also be activated via a global keyboard shortcut.

Expanded Automation Capabilities

AirBuddy 3 significantly enhances its automation features. AppleScript can now inspect device and battery information, audio routes, listening and Spatial Audio modes. It can also trigger actions such as connecting or disconnecting Bluetooth devices, toggling Audio Input Lock, opening the Dashboard, or initiating a Magic Handoff transfer. Shortcuts support has also been expanded with new actions.