PHP Monitor is a native macOS utility that helps developers set up and manage their local PHP development environment while displaying the active PHP version in the status bar.
The tool addresses the friction of managing multiple PHP versions and extensions on macOS by providing a graphical interface to common development tasks. It integrates tightly with Laravel Valet, which it can install automatically, and allows developers to switch PHP versions globally or on a per-site basis using Valet's site isolation feature. The app includes an onboarding wizard that guides users through initial setup, installing missing dependencies like Homebrew, PHP, Composer, and Apple's Command Line Tools. Beyond version switching, it provides quick access to configuration files, service management, domain linking, and a "First Aid" feature to automatically resolve common PHP and Homebrew issues.
PHP Monitor is designed for macOS developers working with PHP frameworks like Laravel and Symfony. It runs natively on both Apple Silicon and Intel-based Macs and requires macOS 13.5 or later. The tool suits developers who want to avoid manual terminal configuration and prefer a graphical approach to environment management. It is particularly valuable for those juggling multiple PHP versions across different projects or who want to minimize setup friction on fresh machines.
The project shows active maintenance with a built-in updater mechanism and ongoing support for current macOS versions. Development is focused on practical developer experience, as evidenced by the emphasis on automated problem-solving through the First Aid feature and the comprehensive onboarding flow for new users.
