Google Calendar is an invaluable tool for keeping track of events, appointments, deadlines and more. Its integration across devices makes it easy to stay organized on the go. However, Mac users are faced with the limitation that there is no dedicated Google Calendar desktop app.
While you can access the web version through your browser, it‘s not the most convenient experience. Thankfully, there are a few workarounds to integrate Google Calendar into your Mac workflows.
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover:
- Syncing Google Calendar with Apple Calendar on Mac
- Step-by-step setup instructions
- Alternative third-party calendar apps
- Tips for customizing notifications and color coding
- Adding extra functionality like scheduling rooms
- Addressing common issues
So whether you‘re a long-time Mac user looking to better incorporate Google Calendar into your routine or someone who just switched from Windows and wants their calendar to make the move with them, this guide has got you covered!
Syncing Google Calendar with Apple Calendar
The easiest way to integrate Google Calendar into your Mac is to sync it with the built-in Apple Calendar app. Here‘s how:
Step 1: Update Your Software
Make sure you have the latest versions of MacOS and Apple Calendar by going to the App Store > Updates. This ensures maximum compatibility.
Step 2: Open Calendar Settings
Launch the Calendar app on your Mac and click on Calendar > Settings in the menu bar.
Step 3: Add Your Google Account
In the Settings window, go to the Accounts tab. Click the + sign to connect a new account and select Google from the options.
Step 4: Sign in to Google
A pop-up window will prompt you to sign in to your Google account. Enter your username and password.
Step 5: Allow Access
Google will ask if you want to allow Apple Calendar access to view and manage events on your Google account. Click Allow.
And that‘s it! Google Calendar is now linked to your Apple Calendar on Mac.
Step 6: Customize Sync Settings
You can choose how often you want the two calendars to sync automatically under Accounts > Refresh Calendars.
Limitations of Syncing with Apple Calendar
While syncing Google Calendar to Apple Calendar is simple and gets the job done for viewing existing events, there are some missing elements:
- Can‘t create new Google calendars or schedule conference rooms
- No email notifications from Google Calendar
- Limited control over notifications and alerts
Thankfully, there are some great third-party calendar apps that can provide enhanced functionality and additional features.
Best Google Calendar Alternatives for Mac
Here are some top options for Google Calendar apps on Mac:
1. BusyCal
BusyCal is a popular calendar replacement app that syncs flawlessly with Google Calendar. Some standout features include:
- Clean and flexible interface
- Easy event creation and editing
- Travel time integration with Apple Maps
- Customizable alerts and reminders
- To-do list support
They offer a 30-day free trial so you can test it out before deciding.
2. Shift
Shift takes a different approach by combining all your work tools like email, messaging, calendar, Slack, Trello etc. into one unified hub. It enables easy access to your Google calendars and creating new events without switching windows. Other benefits:
- Seamlessly integrates Google Workspace apps
- Saves browser tabs and desktop space
- Works with key Chrome extensions
- Offers a generous free plan
For those who want to simplify window switching and streamline workflows, Shift is a nice option.
There are a few other good ones like Fantastical and Woven that also deserve an honorable mention! Explore some options to find one that best meets your specific needs and preferences.
Tips for Using Google Calendar on Your Mac
While third-party apps can enable added functionality, the native Apple Calendar integration still lets you do a lot too. Here are some tips for customizing Google Calendar on your Mac:
Custom Notifications and Alerts
Tailor notifications for different types of events. For example, set a gentle reminder for an hour before lower priority events and make important meetings pop up full screen.
Color Code Your Calendars
Use color coding between different calendars and events to distinguish what‘s work-related vs personal at a quick glance.
Spice Up Your Events with Emojis 🎉
Add relevant emojis to events for some visual flare. For example, use a 💼 briefcase icon to designate work meetings, a ✈️ for travel plans etc.
Keyboard Shortcuts
Learn handy Calendar keyboard shortcuts on Mac to quickly create events, schedule meetings, jump between dates etc.
Browser Extensions
Enhance Google Calendar on browsers like Chrome and Firefox even further with useful extensions like Google Calendar Planner, Calendar Helper etc.
Expanding Google Calendar Functionality on Mac
The Apple Calendar sync limits certain Google Calendar-exclusive features on your Mac. Here are some workarounds:
Scheduling Conference Rooms
Use the web version at calendar.google.com to schedule meeting rooms. Sync the updated calendar back to your Mac afterward.
Receiving Email Notifications
Set up email alerts for event notifications in your Gmail app. Enable pop-up notifications for the Gmail app on your Dock as well.
Creating Additional Calendars
Add specialized calendars like for personal events, health appointments etc on the web interface then sync back with your Apple Calendar.
Integration with Google Services
Connect services like Google Tasks and Google Keep to your Google Calendar web view for deeper integration. Changes sync back to your Mac.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Some of my Google Calendar events are missing on Mac. Why?
Check if that Google calendar is selected under Accounts > Refresh Calendars in Apple Calendar settings. There is an option to hide certain calendars, which may cause missing events.
Q: Will adding private Google Calendar events also show up on my Mac?
Yes, even private events marked "show me only" on Google Calendar will be visible on your Apple Calendar when you sync them. Restrict access by hiding confidential calendars if required.
Q: Can I create tasks on Google Calendar web view to sync to Apple Reminders?
Yes! Google Tasks can integrate with Apple Reminders allowing you to view reminder notifications on Mac as well.
Final Thoughts on Running Google Calendar on Mac
While the lack of an official Google Calendar Mac app is inconvenient, the ability to integrate with Apple Calendar combined with solid third-party options like Busycal and Shift provide workable solutions.
I encourage playing around with some different apps to find your ideal setup. Customizing notifications, keyboard shortcuts and extensions can also help streamline the process.
I hope this guide gave you lots of helpful pointers on how to seamlessly incorporate Google Calendar into your Mac workflow! Let me know in the comments if you have any other tips for fellow Mac users.
