A team of engineers has reimagined the concept of Apple’s Touch Bar with the creation of the Flexbar, a standalone accessory designed to enhance productivity across various devices and platforms. Eniac, the new company founded by these engineers, is bringing the Flexbar to consumers through a Kickstarter campaign. This accessory features a 10-inch 2K OLED screen and provides customizable functionality similar to the Touch Bar, but with the added benefit of being compatible with desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. The early backers can take advantage of a pre-order price of $119, with expected delivery starting in February 2025, though the product’s development still carries inherent risks as it is the company’s inaugural offering.
While Apple ultimately moved away from the Touch Bar, the Flexbar’s designers are positioning it as a more versatile and customizable alternative. One key advantage of the Flexbar is its ability to operate independently from a MacBook Pro, allowing users to incorporate it into any setup, whether it’s a desktop, laptop, or even tablet. Its flexibility in placement, whether at the top of a keyboard or on a standalone magnetic stand, gives users the freedom to arrange their workspace as they see fit, which contrasts with the fixed position of the original Touch Bar.
The Flexbar provides dynamic access to user interface elements like shortcuts, controls, and tools, adapting automatically as users switch between applications. In practical terms, for instance, when using design software like Adobe Photoshop, artists can position the Flexbar vertically to mirror the layout of essential tools within the app. This streamlining enhances workflow by minimizing the need to adjust hand positioning or switch between menus, thus increasing efficiency during creative tasks.
Beyond its adaptive functionality, the Flexbar aims to offer a greater level of customization than the original Touch Bar ever provided. Eniac has made strides to facilitate this through the FlexbarDesigner app, which is currently available for Windows users. This application allows for the creation of personalized buttons, shortcuts, and interface elements via a user-friendly drag-and-drop interface. A macOS version is also in development, extending the accessory’s accessibility to a wider user base. Furthermore, an SDK based on JavaScript is expected to empower developers to create plugins, broadening the Flexbar’s capabilities and fostering a community around it with a marketplace anticipated to launch next year.
Despite the excitement surrounding the Flexbar, potential backers should approach with caution, as the product carries inherent risks typical of new crowdfunding ventures. While the prototypes and functionality of the Flexbar have been demonstrated in multiple videos, Eniac has not fully disclosed where it sources its components. The specifics of the 10-inch OLED screen remain particularly uncertain, raising questions about supply reliability and product quality. The success of the Flexbar’s initial launch will likely depend on Eniac’s ability to navigate these challenges effectively while maintaining transparency about its production processes.
In summary, the Flexbar represents a compelling evolution of the Touch Bar concept, addressing many of its predecessor’s shortcomings. Its standalone nature, customizable features, and wide compatibility set it apart as an innovative tool for enhancing productivity. While there is excitement about the potential and functionality of the Flexbar, prospective supporters must remain aware of the associated risks linked to a startup endeavor. With the right support and development, Eniac’s Flexbar could carve out a niche in the broader market, potentially rejuvenating interest in interactive interface devices.
