macOS System Preferences Suggest New MacBooks Will Feature Magic Toolbars

Apple released operating system updates for all of their devices recently. Alongside iOS 10.1, tvOS 10.0.1, and watchOS 3.1, macOS 10.12.1 was released, and hidden within the System Preferences assets for Apple’s virtual keyboard were a number of keyboard layouts that lacked the traditional row of function keys. These new keyboard layouts work to confirm the popular rumor that the new line of MacBooks, due for release this Thursday, will feature an OLED touch bar in place of the traditional row of function keys.

The virtual keyboard is a macOS feature that allows users to “type” with their cursor on a software-based keyboard, typically used by operators who don’t have a keyboard/have a broken keyboard, or by users that have an easier time using the mouse than a traditional keyboard. Found under the “keyboard” tab within System Preferences, the assets for the virtual keyboard include a number of image files displaying the layouts for the physical keyboards across their product lines. With the release of macOS 10.12.1, a MacRumors user discovered a new set of assets with an updated physical keyboard layout for new devices running the software. The three new image files, found in the system resources, each lack the row of traditional function keys found on the other virtual keyboard assets.

The lack of the row of function keys on the new virtual keyboard assets reiterates a long-held rumor that they will be replaced by an OLED touch bar, currently being called the “Magic Toolbar” with the release of the new line of MacBooks. The “Magic Toolbar” will reportedly feature customizable shortcuts and functions, as well as contextually-sensitive hotkeys depending on what app the user currently has open – volume and track controls for iTunes or Spotify, and quick cut/copy/paste keys for Pages, for example. The touch bar may also feature Touch ID functionality, which has been rumored to be built into either the power button or the touch bar in the new lineup of MacBooks.

The new touch bar is expected to debut on a new 13-inch MacBook, 13-inch MacBook Pro, and 15-inch MacBook Pro, set for release on the 27^th – this coming Thursday. Aside from the new touch bar and possible Touch ID support, the new lineup is expected to be, of course, thinner and lighter, with Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo claiming that the new MacBooks and MacBook Pros will also feature new processors from Intel’s Skylake family. A new 2TB SSD storage option is also expected, and displays featuring an oxide panel for enhanced energy efficiency and improved image quality are rumored, as well. Finally, it is also expected that Apple will get rid of the popular MagSafe connector, opting instead for USB-C backed by Thunderbolt 3 for connectivity, data transfer, and power.

[The information provided in this article has NOT been confirmed by Apple and may be speculation. Provided details may not be factual. Take all rumors, tech or otherwise, with a grain of salt.]