# Revisiting the Touch Bar: A Look at Flexbar
The Touch Bar, a feature launched by Apple in 2016, was an ambitious endeavor to modernize the MacBook Pro keyboard by substituting the conventional function keys with a customizable touch screen. Despite its cutting-edge design, the Touch Bar encountered considerable criticism and was eventually phased out in 2021. Nevertheless, a new initiative named Flexbar, created by ENIAC Technology, seeks to revive the Touch Bar concept while resolving the frustrations users encountered. This article delves into Flexbar, its features, and whether it could be a valuable addition to your setup.
## The Touch Bar: A Brief History
When Apple presented the Touch Bar, it promised an enhanced level of interactivity and customization. The touch strip enabled users to access app-specific features, emojis, and shortcuts, which appeared to be a brilliant concept in theory. However, numerous users deemed the experience insufficient. Regular bugs, limited application support, and a general preference for physical keys resulted in widespread disappointment. Apple ultimately recognized these problems and transitioned away from the Touch Bar in favor of a more conventional keyboard layout, stating that “Pro users cherish the tactile feel of mechanical keys.”
## Introducing Flexbar
Fast forward to the present day, and Flexbar has emerged as an independent successor to the Touch Bar. Crafted to tackle the flaws of its predecessor, Flexbar showcases a sleek metal design that aligns with Apple’s aesthetic. It offers an AMOLED touchscreen panel with impressive resolution, ensuring clear visibility of icons and text.
### Customization and Functionality
A standout characteristic of Flexbar is its vast customization capabilities. In contrast to the Touch Bar, which had a predetermined set of controls, Flexbar can be adapted to meet individual user preferences via a companion app. Users can incorporate shortcuts for apps, folders, websites, volume adjustments, and even intricate command sequences. The option to import and export layouts further enhances its flexibility, facilitating easy sharing of setups with other users.
In my preliminary experience with Flexbar, I configured shortcuts for commonly used apps, a volume slider, and buttons for Siri and screen locking. The capability to scroll for extra buttons or categorize them into folders contributes to the device’s functionality, akin to a Stream Deck but featuring a touch interface.
## Advanced Features and Future Potential
Flexbar also integrates advanced features that allow users to save app configurations and access them swiftly with a single tap. While the device currently accommodates built-in controls, the developers have revealed intentions for a software development kit (SDK) that will permit third-party app integration. Nonetheless, this feature is not anticipated to be available until late 2025, which might restrict the device’s immediate appeal for some users.
Another remarkable aspect of Flexbar is its haptic feedback, delivering tactile responses during control interactions. The device connects to your Mac via USB-C and includes a magnetic stand for enhanced ergonomics.
## Is Flexbar Worth It?
Flexbar presents an enticing option for those who appreciated the Touch Bar’s potential but were let down by its implementation. Its design, customization opportunities, and ergonomic features render it an appealing accessory for both Mac and Windows users. Priced at $179 upon release, with a pre-order option available for $149, it positions itself as a premium accessory.
While it may not be essential for everyone, the Flexbar attracts users who favor customizable tools like the Stream Deck or Logitech’s MX Creative Console. The prospect of future third-party integrations increases its allure, indicating that Flexbar could develop into a more robust productivity tool over time.
## Conclusion
Flexbar signifies a thoughtful re-envisioning of the Touch Bar concept, addressing many of the challenges that affected its predecessor. With its elegant design, extensive customization options, and potential for third-party integration, it may carve out a niche among users seeking a contemporary touch interface for their computing needs. As we anticipate its official launch in February 2025, the Flexbar stands as a testament to the ongoing advancement of user interfaces in the technology realm.
