Mike Wuerthele
Users delving through the resources in Monday's macOS "Sierra" 10.12.1 code have found a graphic representation of a keyboard without a function row, suggesting that rumors of a touch control strip replacing the function keys may be accurate.
The new assets embedded in Monday's update are used for the accessibility functions in macOS, and have in the past corresponded with key layouts in Apple products. The update, found by MacRumors forum user Gabriel Lorin, mirrors all of the keys in a standard" keyboard without a numeric keypad, as found on a MacBook or MacBook Pro, just with the function keys absent.
One of the key changes to next week's anticipated MacBook Pro refresh is believed to be a new touch-sensitive OLED screen replacing the function row of keys on the keyboard. Apple is believed to have filed for a trademark for a possible name for the OLED control strip, called the "Magic Toolbar" under the name of a shell company, "Presto Apps America LLC," in the U.S. back in January.
If the rumors surrounding the "Magic Toolbar" are legitimate, Apple will probably reveal MacBook Pros with the technology, in a media event at its Cupertino, Calif., headquarters on Oct. 27. It's expected that the company will take the wraps off of new 13- and 15-inch MacBook Pros, featuring the yet-to-be-officially-named OLED function row, as well as a thinner chassis sporting reversible USB-C ports, and a Touch ID fingerprint sensor.
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15 Comments
I'm curious how Apple will tackle the Accessibility aspect of a touch-bar so that the sight-challenged can use it?
Was there any real doubt?
I don't know why this didn't occur to me sooner, but I wonder how well this will work for those of us who use the built-in keyboard when on the road but a wireless keyboard when home. Perhaps a Magic Keyboard 2 will incorporate the Magic Landing Strip as well. I guess we'll find out in two days.