1. Connect your Slack workspace
Link your Slack account in desktop Chrome with the Idle Pilot setup extension. You can remove the extension after linking.
Desktop Chrome and the setup extension are required
Looking for a Presence Scheduler alternative? Set daily hours and breaks in Idle Pilot. Your Slack presence follows the saved schedule from the cloud, even with your computer off.
One-time setup in desktop Chrome with the Idle Pilot extension. You can remove the extension after linking Slack.
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Trust signals
Schedule-based presence keeps you active without risky workarounds
Cloud scheduling keeps presence consistent without local workarounds.
Connect with your own account. No workspace bot required.
Keeps your status active even if devices sleep.
No message access. Just reliable availability signals.
It makes availability follow chosen hours without depending on an always-on laptop
You choose work days, start and end times, timezone, and optional breaks. Outside that window, normal Slack availability behavior resumes.
Idle Pilot runs the saved schedule on its servers. A tool that runs only on your device stops when that device switches off; check whether another scheduler offers a server-side option.
A cloud option avoids local hardware and scripts, but it still connects to your Slack account. Compare permissions, session visibility, controls, and company policy before choosing one.
Presence Scheduler is a Slack extension from presencescheduler.com. If you searched for that product, these are the differences to check before you choose.
| Feature | Presence Scheduler | Idle Pilot |
|---|---|---|
| Connected platform | Slack, with multiple workspaces | Slack or Microsoft Teams, one account at a time |
| Computer-off operation | Publisher lists an optional server-side fallback with OAuth | Saved schedules run on Idle Pilot servers after linking |
| First setup | Chrome extension; follow the publisher's setup steps | Desktop Chrome and the Idle Pilot setup extension |
| Schedule controls | Publisher lists weekday hours, time zones, and multiple windows | Daily Work Hours, time zone, Lunch Break, and pause controls |
Neither tool can guarantee approval under your workplace policies. Review the connection and access requirements before use.
Compare device hacks, bots, and schedule-based options
Require hardware or scripts, can conflict with IT policies.
Often need admin approval and add extra integrations to manage.
Works even when devices are offline and keeps schedules explicit.
Connect your account, save your hours, and let Idle Pilot run the schedule:
Takes about 2 minutes on desktop
Link your Slack account in desktop Chrome with the Idle Pilot setup extension. You can remove the extension after linking.
Desktop Chrome and the setup extension are required
Set the days and hours you want to appear active. We handle time zones automatically.
Idle Pilot keeps your status consistent while devices are offline.
Desktop Chrome for setup. Computer off after linking.
One clear guide now owns each supporting intent
Compare setup requirements and schedule controls.
Read guideSee device activity, keep-awake apps, browser tools, and off-device schedules side by side.
Read guideCompare cloud scheduling with device hacks.
Read guideLearn how availability differs from custom status and Do Not Disturb.
Read guideQuick answers before you connect
Check whether it runs with your computer off, which platforms it supports, and how you pause or change the schedule. Idle Pilot runs scheduled presence on its servers and supports Slack or Microsoft Teams, one connected platform at a time. Desktop Chrome and the setup extension are required for linking.
Idle Pilot uses your own linked account and does not install a workspace bot. It does require a desktop Chrome setup extension. Your organization can restrict extensions or account connections, and administrators may see active sessions. Check your workplace policies before linking.
Your organization's policies determine whether you may use a presence scheduler. A connection without a workspace bot is not proof of approval or invisibility. Check the rules that apply to your account before you connect.
Idle Pilot runs your saved schedule on its servers after you link an account. Your computer can be off during those hours. A revoked or expired platform connection can still require you to link again.
Choose a tool that supports the schedule and platform you need. Check its setup requirements, requested access, and pause controls. Review your workplace policies and test presence from another account during the trial.
Last updated: July 2026
7-day free trial · No credit card