Blackout works by darkening the laptop's built-in monitor whenever an external display is active, offering an alternative to traditional closed-clamshell configurations. Because the adjustments are strictly temporary and handled via software, the screen automatically re-engages at 80% brightness if the app closes, a cable disconnects, or the computer restarts. Although fully signed under an official developer account, it relies on hardware APIs that preclude it from Mac App Store hosting. However, users should note that certain Apple laptops face technical limitations that might prevent the internal panel from blacking out completely.
Key points
Laptop users can now preserve access to physical input hardware and biometric authenticat…: Laptop users can now preserve access to physical input hardware and biometric authentication while disabling the internal display.
Distribution takes place outside the official Mac App Store because the utility relies on…: Distribution takes place outside the official Mac App Store because the utility relies on Apple hardware APIs.
Known hardware quirks may stop the display from powering down on Intel models, base M3 Ma…: Known hardware quirks may stop the display from powering down on Intel models, base M3 MacBooks, and M3 MacBook Airs.
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Blackout turns off your MacBook’s built-in display when you are working on an external monitor. System settings will not show the internal display as a desktop anymore. Unplugging monitors or closing the app will return to normal state again.
Use the switches above to see how your displays appear in macOS.
This works perfectly on Apple Silicon Macs (M-series), but on Intel Macs you'll still see the internal display listed on this system preferences page (macOS limitation).
Individual display switches
Switch individual displays on or off from one window.
Keep the lid open
Use your MacBook’s keyboard and trackpad with its screen dark.
Automatic reset to default
If something goes wrong, the app will automatically reset the screens to default (all screens are on)
Minimal footprint
Reduce the app to a tiny top menu bar icon, without an icon in the dock
Detects monitor disconnects
If monitor cable is unplugged, the app will detect this and act accordingly
TouchID keeps working
Unlike other tools, login or authentication via TouchID will work even with the display turned off.
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