Atlas

Atlas is a macOS utility providing a hidden desktop for autonomous agents to open apps, click controls, and execute tasks without interrupting the primary user.

Atlas creates a secondary macOS user account functioning as a hidden desktop for AI agents. It allows agents to operate apps, interact with UI elements, and take screenshots independently while the primary desktop remains available for human use. The software supports various agents including Claude, Codex, Cursor, opencode, and Pi. Unlike screen-sharing solutions, this approach does not use a virtual machine; it operates as a native macOS session using the existing hardware. It maintains isolation by rolling back changes after tasks and restricting agents from accessing credentials or keychains. The system includes controls to pause activity, monitor progress, and manage agent queues.

Atlas at a glance

Best for: Software engineer, Product manager, Designer
Runs on: macOS
Pricing: Free and open source under the MIT license.
Released: November 2026
Category: AI agent tool
Website: atlas.insanearts.io

Key features

Creates a hidden secondary macOS desktop
Executes UI tasks like clicking, typing, and app interaction
Supports independent operation for Claude, Codex, Cursor, and others
Rolls back task changes automatically upon completion
Monitors agent progress with live screenshot views
Provides manual controls to pause or resume agents
Isolates system credentials from agent access

Use it for

Automating calendar scheduling
Testing web applications in browsers like Chrome or Firefox
Reproducing software bugs
Interacting with System Settings
Managing build and sample file operations

Alternatives to Atlas

Titan — It watches live screens and operates real desktop applications.
Offscreen — Runs agent tasks in fresh VMs so your desktop stays free for your own work.
Alook — Connects existing local coding agents to team communication channels.
Mac Computer Use — Enables local desktop automation through native Mac windows and Accessibility controls.
OpenViking — Unifies agent memory, knowledge RAG, and skills into a single directory structure.
Peekaboo — Enables AI agents to interact with macOS applications directly.
Mecum — Runs agents in desktop apps on a virtual display without virtual machines.
Adyen — Share AI agent resources across coding tools and repositories easily.
Goose — Runs locally on your machine with support for 70+ extensions and any LLM.
barn — Monitors multiple AI coding agents on your Mac and jumps to the exact tab when needed.
AgentDock — It coordinates multi-device workflows and provides secure environment access.
Twine — Coordinates multiple coding agents with visual traces and controlled workflows.

All Atlas alternatives