Flexbar is a new accessory that is something between the Touchbar known from MacBooks and… Stream Deck.
MacBooks with Touchbar are – in my opinion – some of the worst laptops in Apple’s history. The lack of appropriate connectors and the endless need to carry around adapters, irreparable keyboards that constantly jammed, and the icing on the cake is this unfortunate Touchbar. An element that I had many approaches to, I tried to configure it in many ways. Ultimately, however (sooner rather than later), I turned it off – because it did not fit into my workflow at all.
However, it would be a lie to say that this element did not have its fans. Had. And it is with them in mind that Flexbar is created. An accessory connected to a computer or tablet that works exactly on the same principle. It offers dynamic buttons that change depending on the application we use.
Flexbar: an accessory that wants to replace the Touchbar of MacBooks
Flexbar can be connected via USB-C to a wide range of devices. From computers (both Macs and PCs) through smartphones and finally tablets. The adaptive interface will allow you to configure it according to your wishes – and although the shape of the equipment brings to mind the Macbook Touchbar, I think that the ideal product to compare it to would be something like the Stream Deck. It will allow you to configure everything according to your wishes.
The accessory consists of a screen measuring approximately 25 centimeters long (2K, OLED). And so as not to overwhelm us at the start – the creators have prepared a set of shortcuts for a whole range of popular applications. It also supports APIs from external companies – and now the team responsible for the product is preparing a system of plugins and a platform where they can be easily distributed. That is, exactly as is the case with the Elgato equipment mentioned in the table.
Flexbar, i.e. Touchbar not only for MacBooks. How much is it?
Flexbar debuted on the Kickstarter platform, where it quite successfully managed to attract the attention of potential customers and reach the set ceiling. It is already a funded project – it took him only 10 minutes to reach the agreed amount. How much will we have to pay for this gadget?
The price of Flexbar (excluding shipping costs) is USD 120, which is approximately PLN 490 at today’s exchange rate. A lot – in fact. But if you miss the Touchbar, or the form-factor simply seems more tempting to you than what Stream Deck and company offer – I think it’s worth taking a closer look at this device and giving it a chance. Shipment of the devices is scheduled to begin in February next year, which is actually just a few weeks away. Does Flexbar have a chance of becoming a mass hit? I sincerely doubt it – but I have no doubt that if it works as effectively as in the video above, it will find its fans in the creative industry.
