MacChat: LaunchBar Deep Dive and Finder Preferences Unlocked

Summary: Chris and Michael catch up on the latest macOS Sequoia 15.4 update, sharing what’s working better—and what still needs a workaround. From new Braille fixes to ditching Apple’s Mail categories, they cover practical improvements for VoiceOver users. Michael walks through how LaunchBar has become his go-to for blazing-fast app launching and file actions, and Chris breaks down tips for customizing Finder views to better suit your workflow. You’ll also hear about a hidden setting that makes Windows behave more like macOS inside Parallels, plus browser tricks for reading ChatGPT messages more reliably with VoiceOver. Shortcuts & Tips Mentioned: LaunchBar: Command + Space: Open LaunchBar Type abbreviation → Hold last letter to launch app instantly Command + Option + A: Assign abbreviation Tab: Open file actions Command + Option + \\: Open clipboard history Command + C → Command + CC: Clip merge for copying multiple items Finder View Modes: Command + 1: Icon View Command + 2: List View Command + 3: Column View Command + 4: Gallery View Finder → Preferences (Command + ,) → Advanced → Check “Keep folders on top when sorting by name” Parallels Desktop: Command + , → Shortcuts → Set “Mac system shortcuts” to Always Use SharpKeys to remap Command and Alt keys in Windows Command + F4: Closes a Windows window if you’ve adjusted key mappings VoiceOver & ChatGPT: Command + Shift + C: Copy last ChatGPT message (Web) Shift + Escape: Jump back to ChatGPT input field VO + Shift + C: Copy last spoken phrase VO + Shift + Z: Save last spoken phrase as audio to desktop Emoji Access: LaunchBar → Type emo → Right Arrow to browse categories On Windows: Windows + . opens emoji picker Other Tips: Safari echo bug? Try Chrome for better typing feedback Want all your emails back in one place? Mail > View > Uncheck “Show Categories” F1–F12 not doing what’s printed on the key? System Settings → Keyboard → Enable “Use F1, F2, etc. as standard function keys” Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/cd2060d0-3649-4099-a52b-49c9b0d96b79 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Presents.Read transcript

Om Podcasten

Unmute Presents is a podcast focused on technology for blind and visually impaired users. Hosted by Marty Sobo and Michael Babcock, the show covers tech updates, JAWS tips, BlindShell Classic 2 tutorials, app reviews, and more. Each week, episodes answer tech questions and keep you informed. Tune in for live community call replays, quick tech tips under 10 minutes, and more. Learn more and join the conversation at Unmute Show.