The creators of Flexbar believe Apple's Touch Bar deserves a second chance, and they're bringing it back to life as a standalone device. This innovative gadget is essentially a thin touchscreen display that can be used with multiple devices and platforms through a USB connection, offering more customizability and compatibility than its predecessor.

The Flexbar is the brainchild of four engineers who have formed a new company, Eniac, and are attempting to bring the accessory to consumers through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. Early backers can preorder one discounted to $119 from the full MSRP of $179, with delivery expected as early as February 2025. Although this is Eniac's first product, the company has demonstrated functional hardware in several videos, showcasing the device's capabilities.

One of the key advantages of the Flexbar over Apple's Touch Bar is its customizability. The device can be used with desktops or laptops running Windows or macOS, or mobile devices like tablets, and can be positioned exactly how you need it, either sitting at the top of a keyboard or on its own magnetic stand. This flexibility, combined with the ability to create your own buttons, shortcuts, and custom interface elements through the FlexbarDesigner app, makes it a more appealing option for users.

The FlexbarDesigner app, currently available in an early release version for Windows with a macOS version in development, offers a streamlined drag-and-drop interface for users to design their own interface elements. Additionally, a JavaScript-based SDK is available for the Flexbar, allowing developers to create plugins for various apps that will be available through a marketplace expected to launch next year. This level of customizability was lacking in Apple's Touch Bar, which may have contributed to its limited adoption.

When used with image editing apps like Adobe's Photoshop, the Flexbar can be positioned vertically to replicate the familiar layout of the app's main toolbar, allowing artists to switch between tools or brush settings without having to reposition their stylus. This level of integration and flexibility makes the Flexbar a promising solution for users seeking a more efficient workflow.

Despite the potential of the Flexbar, there is still an element of risk when backing a Kickstarter campaign, especially from a new company. Eniac has stated that it is sourcing components through standard supply channels, but the origin of the Flexbar's uniquely-sized 10-inch 2K OLED screen remains unclear. Ideally, it is not repurposing Apple's Touch Bar screens, which have a limited supply stock.

The resurrection of the Touch Bar concept as a standalone device has significant implications for the tech industry. If successful, the Flexbar could pave the way for more innovative, customizable accessories that enhance user productivity and experience. As the market continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how the Flexbar fares and whether it can succeed where Apple's Touch Bar failed.

In conclusion, the Flexbar is an intriguing solution that addresses the limitations of Apple's Touch Bar while offering more customizability and compatibility. With its Kickstarter campaign underway, it remains to be seen whether this innovative device will gain traction with consumers. One thing is certain, however – the Flexbar is an exciting development in the world of tech, and its success could have far-reaching implications for the industry.