Switching between different keyboard shortcuts during online meetings can be frustrating. Every video conferencing platform uses different keys for muting the microphone or turning off the camera, making it difficult to remember them during important conversations.

Project Mirage hopes to solve this problem with Dune, a compact three-button keypad designed specifically for MacBook users. The device plugs directly into the laptop and provides quick access to frequently used shortcuts across different applications.

Smart Buttons That Change with Every App

Unlike traditional macro keyboards, Dune automatically changes the function of its three buttons depending on which application is currently open.

For example:

  • Zoom or Google Meet: Mute microphone, turn camera on or off, or bring the meeting window to the front.
  • Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets: Copy, Paste, and Undo.
  • Google Chrome: Refresh pages, open the address bar, or paste copied text.
  • Visual Studio Code and GitHub: Merge pull requests, approve code reviews, or close requests.

This context-aware functionality removes the need to remember dozens of keyboard shortcuts.

Designed to Match Your MacBook

Project Mirage has designed Dune specifically for modern MacBooks.

The aluminum keypad connects through the USB-C port and sits flush against compatible laptops without leaving any gap. Since it draws power directly from the MacBook, users never have to charge it or replace batteries.

Currently, Dune supports:

  • MacBook Air (M2 and newer)
  • MacBook Pro (M1 Pro and newer)
  • macOS Sequoia (macOS 15) or later

AI Helps Build Custom Shortcuts

One of Dune’s biggest highlights is its AI integration.

Using Claude Desktop, users can simply describe the shortcut they want in plain English. Claude automatically creates the required automation and assigns it to one of Dune’s buttons.

Examples include:

  • Researching companies while browsing their websites
  • Converting images into JPEG format
  • Launching frequently used tools
  • Automating repetitive office tasks
  • Opening custom workflows with one click

Even users without programming knowledge can create advanced shortcuts.

Calendar Integration for Faster Meetings

The companion application also connects with your calendar.

Before your next meeting begins, Dune displays quick actions that allow you to:

  • Join instantly
  • Dismiss the reminder
  • Send an “I’m running late” message

These features reduce interruptions and help users stay organized throughout the day.

Skills Marketplace Expands Possibilities

Project Mirage has also launched a Skills Marketplace, allowing users to download shortcuts created by the community.

Although the marketplace is still in its early stages, it has the potential to become a valuable resource for professionals looking to automate repetitive tasks without creating their own workflows.

A Few Limitations

While Dune offers impressive customization, there are still areas for improvement.

The keypad buttons are relatively easy to press accidentally, which could result in unintentionally muting or unmuting a meeting. The Skills Marketplace is also limited at launch, with only a small number of available automations.

Project Mirage is expected to expand both hardware refinements and software capabilities over time.

Why This Matters

AI-powered productivity tools are becoming increasingly common, but most remain software-only solutions.

Dune combines physical hardware with AI-powered automation, making everyday tasks faster and reducing the need to memorize complicated shortcuts. As professionals spend more time in virtual meetings and collaborative workspaces, devices like Dune could become valuable additions to modern workflows.

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