Before Dawn screenshot

Before Dawn

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Updated: 16 Jan 2026
209 Stars

A desktop screensaver app using web technologies

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Overview

Before Dawn is an innovative open-source screensaver application that merges the creativity of web technologies with functionality. Built on Electron, this cross-platform application allows users to create and run screensavers using familiar tools like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This project originated from a personal endeavor to explore early screensaver history and has transformed into a user-friendly framework that developers and artists can easily access.

This application offers a unique experience, enabling users to create their own custom screensavers with relative ease. Although it necessitates running as a separate application and disabling the existing screensaver on your operating system, the creative possibilities it presents are both exciting and distinctive.

Features

  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Functions on multiple operating systems, including OSX, Windows, and an experimental release for Ubuntu/Debian.

  • User-Friendly Interface: Simplified preferences window lets users preview different screensavers and customize settings easily.

  • Web Technology Based: Create screensavers using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, making it accessible for developers familiar with web design.

  • Idle Detection: Engages screensaver automatically when it detects user inactivity, ensuring a smooth experience.

  • Custom Screensaver Creation: Allows users to contribute their own screensavers to the project, encouraging community involvement and creativity.

  • Advanced Settings: Users can specify parameters for how the screensaver operates, including idle time before activation and custom paths.

  • Stable and Reliable: Currently, the application is stable and maintains a solid core to enhance functionality while encouraging experimentation.

  • Active Development: Regular updates and a supportive community for those who wish to hack or build upon the existing framework.