How to Customize the MacBook Touch Bar
The MacBook touch bar has been a game-changer for many users, offering a whole new way to interact with their favorite apps and software. However, while the touch bar comes pre-loaded with a range of useful features, you may find that you want to customize it to better suit your needs. In this article, we’ll explore how you can personalize your Macbook touch bar to get the most out of it.
1. Rearrange the Icons
The first step in customizing your MacBook touch bar is to rearrange the icons that appear on it. By default, the touch bar will show app-specific shortcuts, but you can also add other icons to it such as media controls, system settings, and more.
To rearrange the icons, simply click and hold on an icon and drag it to a new location on the touch bar. You can also remove an icon by dragging it off the touch bar and dropping it into the bar below.
2. Add Additional Shortcuts
If you want to add additional shortcuts to your MacBook touch bar, you can do so by opening the ‘Touch Bar’ tab in your Mac’s System Preferences. Here, you’ll be able to choose which apps you want to customize and add additional shortcuts by clicking the ‘Customize Touch Bar’ button.
This will allow you to select different shortcuts, including keyboard shortcuts, system commands, and more. You can also create new custom buttons by dragging commands from the right side of the screen onto the touch bar.
3. Create a Custom Palette
Another way to customize your MacBook touch bar is by creating a custom palette. This will give you quick access to a range of tools, shortcuts, and other features that you frequently use.
To create a custom palette, first open the app you want to customize and navigate to the Touch Bar settings. Then, select ‘Customize Touch Bar’ and drag the ‘Flexible Space’ button to the touch bar.
Next, drag other buttons and commands to the touch bar, building up a custom palette of functions and shortcuts. You can add buttons for any command or feature that the app supports, including actions, sliders, and pop-up menus.
4. Use Third-Party Apps
If you want even more customization options for your MacBook touch bar, then you can turn to third-party apps. Many developers have created apps that allow you to create custom touch bar icons, add new functionality, and more.
Some popular options include BetterTouchTool, which allows you to create custom touch bar layouts and define custom gestures, and Pock, which creates a dock-style touch bar that shows your favorite apps.
Conclusion
The MacBook touch bar is a powerful tool that can help you work more efficiently and access your favorite features quickly. By customizing it to suit your particular needs and preferences, you can make it even more useful and personalized. Whether you rearrange icons, add shortcuts, create custom palettes, or turn to third-party apps, there are plenty of ways to make your MacBook touch bar your own.