Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Sapphire, compatibility, autonomous features, and subscriptions.
What is Sapphire?
Sapphire is a macOS utility app made to transform the hardware camera notch on modern MacBooks into an interactive component. It integrates intelligent features like Blip Agent & Blip Live, real-time live telemetry (Sports & Markets), biometrics (Face ID on Mac), a 60% XDR display brightness overdrive, pro audio routing, Snap Zones, wireless Android Nearby Share and more.
Which versions of macOS and Mac models are supported?
Sapphire runs on any Mac, Intel or Apple Silicon, as long as you're on macOS Sonoma (14.6) or later.
While designed around the hardware notch curve, Sapphire also supports notchless Macs.
How does Face ID on Mac work? Is it secure?
Sapphire's Face ID utilizes the built-in FaceTime HD camera coupled with a proprietary on-device anti-spoof neural model to verify your facial geometry in real time. It matches Android's Class 2 biometric security standards.
All biometric vector embeddings are processed entirely locally on the Apple Neural Engine and securely stored within the macOS Keychain, the same place where Apple uses to store passwords, passkeys, certifcates, etc. No facial data or anything related to it ever leaves your device.
How does the 60% Extra Brightness Boost work?
Liquid Retina XDR displays on 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pros have hardware backlights capable of producing 1,000 nits sustained and 1,600 nits peak HDR brightness. However, macOS locks standard desktop SDR content to 500 nits to save battery.
Sapphire's Custom HUD alloes you to bypass the 500-nit SDR software ceiling, unlocking up to a 60% brightness increase for seamless outdoor and direct sunlight visibility. Note: M4 Macbook Pro's and later, reach 1000 nits in direct sunlight by default.
How do I install and activate Sapphire?
Simply download the installer package (Sapphire.pkg) from our website or GitHub releases. Run the installer, launch Sapphire from your Applications folder, and grant the requested macOS Accessibility and Screen Recording permissions.
If you have upgraded to a Pro or Ultra tier, enter your license key in application preferences or sign in to your Account Dashboard to automatically authorize your device.
Can I use Sapphire for free?
Yes! Sapphire is completely free to download and includes Face ID on Mac, Custom HUD with Spotify controls & 60% XDR Extra Brightness, Pro Audio Management, Snap Zones, File Shelf & Drop Bucket, Android Nearby Share, Caffeinate, and all lock screen and menu bar customizations.
Advanced capabilities like Blip Agent, Blip Live, Circle to Search, and Live Sports/Finance activities are available via our Subscription Tiers.
How do I transfer my license to a new Mac?
You can manage all authorized machines anytime by logging into your Sapphire Account Portal. Click on the Devices tab to view connected Macs, revoke old devices or rotate your license key.
Still have a question?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Check out our community issue tracker or our Discord.