SCHMIPPER - Browser Volume Controller

A cross-platform application to control individual browser tab volumes via browser extension + native messaging.

🌐 Website: Visit Schmipper Website

Interface Preview

The Schmipper extension provides a clean, dark interface showing all browser tabs with active audio. Users can adjust individual tab volumes with sliders or use the "Mute All" button for quick control.

Project Structure

schmipper/
├── extension/           # Browser extension code
├── native-host/        # Native messaging host application
├── docs/               # Website and documentation
└── scripts/           # Build and deployment scripts

Development Setup

Prerequisites

• asdf version manager (recommended)
• Chrome/Brave browser with Developer Mode enabled

Installation

Using asdf (Recommended)

# Install Node.js plugin (if not already installed)
asdf plugin add nodejs https://github.com/asdf-vm/asdf-nodejs.git

# Install the Node.js version specified in .tool-versions
asdf install

# Verify correct version
node --version    # Should show v22.12.0

# Install project dependencies
npm install
npm run build
npm run install-native-host

Alternative Setup

If you prefer managing Node.js yourself:

• Node.js 22.12.0+ (LTS recommended)
• Then run: npm install && npm run build && npm run install-native-host

Architecture

• Browser Extension: Detects audio, provides UI, communicates with native host
• Native Host: Controls system audio levels for specific browser processes
• Communication: JSON messages via Native Messaging API

Website

The project website is built with neobrutalist design and hosted on GitHub Pages. The website source is in the docs/ directory.

Local Website Development

# Serve the website locally
cd docs
python -m http.server 8000
# Visit http://localhost:8000

GitHub Pages Deployment

The website automatically deploys when changes are pushed to the main branch. Configure in your repository:

1. Go to Settings → Pages
2. Source: Deploy from a branch
3. Branch: main / docs folder