Product memo
This native macOS Quick Look extension solves the problem of plain text rendering for markdown files. It offers a more readable preview experience than the default Quick Look, targeting users who frequently work with markdown on macOS. The extension renders markdown beautifully, parses YAML frontmatter into a collapsible table, and supports diagrams and math.
- For who
- macOS users previewing markdown files
- Solves what
- Renders markdown files beautifully in macOS Quick Look
- Native macOS Quick Look extension
- Renders markdown beautifully
- Parses YAML frontmatter
In their own words
Markdown was never meant to be _previewed plain text._
The most readable way to preview any .md file on macOS.
Operator & company
Company
- Team
Indie / lean
- Founded
Apr 2026
Operating model
- Business model
Saas
- Platform
Desktop
- Audience
Developers
Product channels
Builder strategy
ProvenRadar analysis
- Strategy Type
- Niche Specialist
- Stage
- Bootstrapped Lean
- Effort
- Solo Buildable
Commercial cues
- Model
- free only
- Free tier
- Yes
- Trial
- No
Pricing strategy
Showmd is a free, open-source macOS utility, positioned as a no-cost enhancement to the operating system's native file preview.
- • A free tier removes all pricing friction, encouraging widespread adoption.
- • The open-source model builds community trust and invites contributions.
- • It offers a valuable utility without requiring any financial commitment.
About showmd Expand
Showmd provides a free, native macOS Quick Look extension that transforms how users preview markdown files. Instead of seeing plain text, it renders .md files beautifully, making them instantly readable within the operating system's native previewer.
Its open-source and no-cost positioning removes friction, making it an accessible enhancement for a common workflow problem.