Roger Fingas
A developer called Red Sweater has released a free app, Touché, which can simulate the new MacBook Pro's Touch Bar even on older Mac models without the technology.
Once installed, the app is invoked with a keyboard shortcut, which brings up a simulation window. Further shortcuts let people save a screencap, or copy the image to the clipboard. Settings can be configured through a menu bar item.
Although it's free, the app not only requires macOS 10.12.1 but specifically build 16B2657, which should be the latest one on Apple's servers.
On the Pro, the Touch Bar completely replaces function keys, serving up contextual commands based on the app a person is using. While these can directly substitute for the missing keys, they can also go beyond them to include things like sliders and thumbnail browsers.
The first Touch Bar Pro orders should now be arriving on doorsteps. For an in-depth look at the laptop, read the official AppleInsider review.
Charles Martin
Christine McKee
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11 Comments
So it just simulates Apple's own Touch Bar simulator? I wonder if it's using any private APIs to achieve this?
So it puts the touchbar… on the screen?
I don't get it.
It allows a non-developer to play with the features of the Touch Bar on a non Touch Bar Mac. A developer can test their apps while on a non Touch Bar Mac and take screens shots for their documentation.
Looks like Red Sweater wasn't ready for the load on their website.
#MacRumoured