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DocumentsGetting Started

Getting Started

1. Download and install

Pick an install path for your system on the download page:

  • macOS: download the .dmg file and drag it to Applications
  • Windows website installer — Windows 10+. Same download URL as before, with faster in-app updates. If Windows blocks the installer, use the on-page guide
  • Microsoft Store — extra option for Windows 10+. Windows handles signing; updates come from the Store

System requirements: macOS 10.15+ / Windows 10+.

Windows (Store): open the VeilWin page in Microsoft Store and click Get. No SmartScreen prompt.

Windows (website installer): run the installer. If you see “Windows protected your PC”, follow the install guide on the download page.

2. Grant Accessibility permission

VeilWin needs to read window bounds and track the focused window:

  • macOS: open Settings and follow step 1 on the Quick start page, or go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → Accessibility and enable veilwin. Status is always visible under Settings → General. Dimming still works without permission (slightly slower polling fallback)
  • Windows: no extra permission needed

The permission is used locally only: window info is read to decide which window stays bright. Nothing is uploaded.

3. Enable dimming

  • Click “Enable dimming” in the tray menu, or press the default global hotkey ⌃⌥⌘H (macOS) / Ctrl+Alt+Super+H (Windows)
  • Everything except the focused window fades into the dark
  • Press the hotkey again to restore

4. Adjust the intensity

The default intensity is 40%. Adjust it under Settings → Appearance or with intensity hotkeys:

  • Intensity up/down: unbound by default — customize under Settings → Hotkeys (e.g. ⌃⌥↑)
  • The tray menu also offers quick intensity controls

5. Set up your first profile (optional)

  1. Open Settings → Profiles
  2. Create a new profile from the “Standard” or “Eye Care” template
  3. Tune intensity, tint, animation and focus scope
  4. Bind a hotkey for “Activate profile” under Settings → Hotkeys and switch with one key

6. Explore more

Stuck? Check the FAQ or email contact@once.work

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