TomatoBar is a Pomodoro timer application for the macOS menu bar that helps users manage work and rest intervals using the Pomodoro Technique.
The tool addresses the need for a lightweight, unobtrusive timer that fits naturally into the macOS workflow. Rather than requiring a separate window or application, TomatoBar lives in the menu bar where it remains accessible without cluttering the workspace. It implements the core Pomodoro workflow with configurable work and rest intervals, optional audio cues, notifications, and a global hotkey for quick access. The application is fully sandboxed with no special entitlements, meaning it operates with minimal system permissions.
TomatoBar suits developers and knowledge workers who want a distraction-free productivity tool integrated into their existing macOS environment. The menu bar placement makes it ideal for those who prefer minimal visual overhead while maintaining awareness of time. The tool offers integration points for users who want to extend its functionality: it logs state transitions in JSON format to a standard location for productivity analysis, and it can be controlled via URL schemes, allowing automation through command-line tools or other applications. Users on older macOS versions should note that versions prior to 3.0 supported Touch Bar integration and earlier operating systems.
The project maintains active development with automated testing through continuous integration workflows. Releases are distributed through both direct download and Homebrew, indicating attention to accessibility and user convenience. The codebase is written in Swift and remains focused on the core timer functionality without scope creep into unrelated features.
