Why DockMaster Asks for Screen Recording on Mac
When you first open DockMaster, macOS asks you to grant Screen Recording permission. This is a reasonable question to have: why does a Dock utility need screen access?
The Short Answer
DockMaster uses the Screen Recording API to capture live window thumbnails — the small, real-time previews you see when you hover over an app icon in the Dock. Without this permission, macOS does not allow any app to read the contents of other windows.
What Happens With the Permission
- DockMaster can display live thumbnails of your open windows in the Dock preview panel.
- Thumbnails update in real time as you work.
- You can see exactly what's in each window before switching to it.
What Does NOT Happen
- DockMaster does not record your screen.
- DockMaster does not save screenshots.
- DockMaster does not upload any screen content.
- All window rendering happens locally on your Mac.
Why macOS Calls It "Screen Recording"
Apple groups several capabilities under the Screen Recording permission, including window capture, screen capture, and screen sharing. DockMaster only uses the window thumbnail capability. The permission name can be misleading, but there is no way to request just the thumbnail portion — it's all or nothing from Apple's perspective.
What About Accessibility Permission?
DockMaster also requests Accessibility access. This is used to detect when you hover over the Dock and to interact with window positions. Like Screen Recording, Accessibility processing is entirely local. No data is sent externally for these features.
Can I Revoke the Permission?
Yes, at any time. Go to System Settings → Privacy & Security → Screen Recording and toggle DockMaster off. Without the permission, live window previews will not be available, but other features (clipboard, shelf) will still work.
Summary
Screen Recording is required by macOS for DockMaster to show live window previews. It's used solely for local window rendering. Nothing is recorded, saved, or uploaded. You can revoke it at any time.