LightBuddy: The Mac App That Brings Ring-Light Effects to Any Display

In a world where every new Apple feature seems to inspire copycats or spin-offs, one developer refused to shelve his idea—even after Apple beat him to it. Gui Rambo, a macOS developer, had conceived a unique way to enhance video calls using the Mac’s display itself as a ring light. While Apple later released a similar feature called Edge Effect in macOS 26.2, Rambo didn’t let that stop him. Instead, he refined and launched LightBuddy, an app that not only recreates Apple’s idea but expands it with versatility and customization.

From Idea to App: The Journey of LightBuddy

A few months ago, Gui Rambo envisioned an app that would turn the Mac display into a dynamic ring light for video calls. Rather than relying on a physical ring light or opening an empty Safari page, his app would use software to create the effect, complete with a subtle dimming feature that adjusted as the cursor moved. Initially, he doubted whether anyone would use it and shelved the project.

Fast forward to 2025: Apple introduces Edge Effect in macOS 26.2, a feature that dims areas of the screen near the cursor. Recognizing his concept had been validated, Rambo returned to the project and polished it into a full-fledged app called LightBuddy.

LightBuddy offers several enhancements over Apple’s implementation. The app includes HDR support for displays capable of high dynamic range, allowing users to adjust light intensity. It supports full color customization beyond standard blue and amber temperatures, enabling any hue to suit the environment. Multi-display setups are also supported, letting users configure each display independently.

The app integrates seamlessly into the Mac menu bar, borrowing aesthetic cues from Apple’s Liquid Glass interface. Fine-grained controls allow users to tailor the light behavior precisely, while compatibility extends to Intel Macs running macOS 14 or later—unlike Apple’s Edge Effect, which requires Apple Silicon and macOS 26.2.

While designed primarily for Apple displays such as MacBooks, Studio Display, and Pro Display XDR, LightBuddy also works with third-party monitors, including LG UltraFine, though performance may vary. Rambo continues to enhance the app, planning features like keyboard shortcuts, Shortcuts integration, Night Mode, and True Tone support for automatic color temperature adjustment. Priced at $4.99, LightBuddy is now available for purchase.

What Undercode Say:

LightBuddy’s development highlights a fascinating trend in software innovation: the interplay between independent developers and major tech companies. Apple’s Edge Effect may have validated Rambo’s concept, but LightBuddy demonstrates how third-party developers can still deliver a superior product by focusing on flexibility, backward compatibility, and deep customization. While Apple’s feature is limited to newer hardware, LightBuddy broadens access, appealing to a larger audience.

From a usability perspective, LightBuddy addresses a key pain point: the need for adaptable lighting in video calls. Its cursor-aware dimming system avoids obstructing on-screen tasks, while multi-display support ensures professionals with complex setups can use the app seamlessly. HDR and full-color control further allow users to match lighting to mood, environment, or branding—a nuance Apple’s feature lacks.

Moreover, the app underscores the importance of software aesthetic in user experience. By mimicking Apple’s Liquid Glass animation cues, LightBuddy feels native and visually polished, reducing friction for users who value design cohesion. This attention to detail elevates the app beyond a simple utility into a thoughtful tool for enhancing video communication.

Rambo’s proactive approach—returning to a shelved idea rather than abandoning it after Apple’s announcement—illustrates the entrepreneurial mindset crucial in today’s tech ecosystem. It also raises questions about innovation cycles: when major companies adopt concepts pioneered by independent developers, smaller creators often need to pivot creatively, enhancing the idea rather than competing head-to-head.

From a technical standpoint, LightBuddy’s support for Intel Macs and third-party displays is a strategic advantage. In a market where Apple increasingly limits new features to its latest hardware, cross-compatibility is a compelling selling point. Additionally, planned updates like Night Mode and True Tone integration show foresight in adapting to user habits and comfort, signaling a commitment to continuous improvement rather than static release.

Finally, LightBuddy exemplifies a broader industry trend: developers increasingly monetize micro-innovations that Apple partially implements. Priced affordably, the app appeals to professionals and casual users alike, demonstrating that even in a post-“sherlocked” environment, small teams can find niche success by delivering depth, customization, and accessibility.

Fact Checker Results:

✅ LightBuddy is compatible with macOS 14 and later, including Intel Macs.
✅ Apple’s Edge Effect requires Apple Silicon and macOS 26.2.
❌ LightBuddy is not limited to Apple displays; third-party monitors may work with varying results.

Prediction:

🌟 LightBuddy is poised to attract Mac users seeking customization and compatibility beyond Apple’s native features. Its continued development, including keyboard shortcuts and True Tone support, suggests the app could become the standard for software-based ring lighting, particularly among remote workers and content creators.