What is a ghost pointer for AI approvals?
A ghost pointer is a visual indicator of Auto-Allow’s approval activity. It is separate from your real cursor. It helps you see where the app is trying to approve a button; the host app must still accept the action.
Two pointers, two jobs
Your real cursor is the one you use to work. Auto-Allow draws an additional pointer during an approval attempt. That animation makes the activity visible instead of leaving you guessing which button the app targeted.
A ghost pointer is not a second macOS input device. It does not make hidden or inaccessible buttons clickable. Do not interpret a hover animation as confirmation that the approval succeeded.
What does Auto-Allow approve?
The utility watches the apps you choose and checks supported approval labels. Configure those labels for your own workflow. Labels such as Allow once and Always allow can represent different authorization scopes in the AI app, so review them carefully before turning on automation.
Will my real cursor move?
The ghost pointer is designed to remain separate from your real cursor. Start with Test only to preview its path. Then test a harmless real approval in the exact app you use; application accessibility support varies.
Can the AI app be in the background?
No. Auto-Allow requires the selected AI app to stay in front. It is not background control of every app on your Mac. Changing the foreground app can prevent approval attempts.
Does it read the command and decide whether it is safe?
No. An enabled button label is not a security assessment of the command behind it. Keep approvals manual for unfamiliar, destructive or sensitive operations. Use the host agent’s own narrow permission rules where possible.
How to see it for yourself
- Install Auto-Allow using the setup guide.
- Grant Accessibility access to the installed app.
- Select an AI app and enable Test only.
- Open a supported approval prompt in that app and start the preview.
- Review the result before enabling real approvals.
What if it moves but nothing happens?
Test only deliberately performs no clicks. Outside that mode, check the exact app’s Accessibility access, whether the target button is enabled, the label rules and the foreground app. Pause if the prompt stays open; do not rely on animation alone.
Why AI agents still ask for approval · Mac permission checklist