In section Startups & Technology

Project Mirage’s Dune is a tiny, context-aware shortcut keypad

Fumbling for the correct mute or camera shortcut during a video call is a common frustration, but Project Mirage aims to solve this with Dune. This $119 aluminum keypad, roughly the size of a stick of gum, plugs directly into a MacBook’s USB-C port to provide three tactile, context-aware control buttons.

The device intelligently adapts its function based on the active application. In a meeting, the keys might manage your mic, camera, and window focus, while switching to Excel or Chrome automatically rebinds them to common navigational or editing tasks. Because the hardware is custom-fit to specific MacBook models, it maintains a flush profile against the chassis, drawing power directly from the laptop without requiring batteries or external charging cables.

Customization is handled through a companion app that allows users to map keys to specific commands or URLs. For those seeking advanced utility, the device integrates with Claude Desktop, enabling users to generate complex shortcuts using plain language instructions. While the current marketplace for shared community skills remains in its infancy, the potential to turn the hardware into a sophisticated interface for automated workflows is significant. Despite some concerns regarding button resistance—which can lead to accidental inputs—Dune offers a more streamlined and portable alternative to bulkier macro controllers like the Stream Deck.

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