Reset Your Macbook Pro’s Touch Bar: The Ultimate Guide (easy Steps!)

The MacBook Pro Touch Bar is a revolutionary input device that has transformed the way we interact with our laptops. However, like any other electronic component, it can occasionally encounter issues that may require a reset. If you’re experiencing problems with your Touch Bar, follow this comprehensive guide to learn how to reset it effectively, restoring its functionality and enhancing your overall user experience.

1. Identifying the Need for a Touch Bar Reset

Before proceeding with a reset, it’s crucial to determine if it’s truly necessary. Here are some common signs that indicate a Touch Bar reset may be required:

• Unresponsive or Frozen Touch Bar: If your Touch Bar is not responding to touch inputs or appears frozen, a reset can help restore its functionality.

• Display Issues: If the Touch Bar is displaying incorrect information, showing glitches, or exhibiting graphical artifacts, a reset may resolve these display-related issues.

• Connectivity Problems: In case you encounter Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connectivity issues on your MacBook Pro, resetting the Touch Bar can potentially resolve these connection-related problems.

• Software Updates: After installing software updates, particularly major macOS releases, a Touch Bar reset can ensure compatibility and optimal performance with the updated software.

2. Basic Troubleshooting Steps Before Resetting

Before attempting a reset, consider performing some basic troubleshooting steps to potentially resolve the issue without a reset:

• Restart Your MacBook Pro: A simple restart can often resolve minor glitches and software-related issues.

• Check for Software Updates: Ensure that your macOS is up to date. Software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that may address Touch Bar-related issues.

• Disconnect External Devices: Remove any external devices connected to your MacBook Pro, as they can sometimes interfere with the Touch Bar’s functionality.

• Clean the Touch Bar: Gently wipe the Touch Bar with a soft, dry cloth to remove any dirt or debris that may be affecting its responsiveness.

3. Resetting the Touch Bar Using Keyboard Shortcut

The simplest method to reset the Touch Bar is through a keyboard shortcut:

• Press and Hold the Touch Bar’s Power Button: Locate the physical power button on the right side of the Touch Bar. Press and hold it for approximately 10 seconds.

• Release the Button and Wait: After 10 seconds, release the power button. The Touch Bar will turn off briefly and then turn back on, indicating a successful reset.

4. Resetting the Touch Bar via System Preferences

Alternatively, you can reset the Touch Bar through System Preferences:

• Open System Preferences: Click on the Apple logo in the menu bar and select “System Preferences.”

• Navigate to Keyboard: Click on the “Keyboard” icon within System Preferences.

• Select the Touch Bar Tab: In the Keyboard preferences window, select the “Touch Bar” tab.

• Click the “Reset Touch Bar” Button: Locate the “Reset Touch Bar” button at the bottom of the Touch Bar preferences pane. Click on it to initiate the reset process.

• Confirm the Reset: A confirmation dialog box will appear. Click on “Reset” to proceed with the reset.

5. Resetting the Touch Bar Using Terminal

For advanced users, resetting the Touch Bar via Terminal is another option:

• Open Terminal: Launch the Terminal application from your Applications folder or by searching for it using Spotlight.

• Enter the Reset Command: In the Terminal window, type the following command:

“`
sudo pkill TouchBarServer; killall ControlStrip
“`

• Press Enter and Provide Your Password: Hit the Enter key and enter your administrator password when prompted.

• Restart the Touch Bar Process: Once the command is executed, the Touch Bar will temporarily turn off. To restart it, type the following command:

“`
sudo launchctl load -w /System/Library/LaunchAgents/com.apple.touchbar.agent.plist
“`

• Press Enter: Hit the Enter key to complete the reset process.

6. Additional Considerations for Touch Bar Reset

• Data Loss: Resetting the Touch Bar does not result in data loss. Your customized Touch Bar settings and saved Touch Bar shortcuts will remain intact.

• Compatibility with External Displays: If you’re using an external display with your MacBook Pro, ensure that the Touch Bar is enabled in the display’s settings.

• Touch Bar Customization: After resetting the Touch Bar, you can re-customize it to suit your preferences by adding or removing shortcuts, adjusting the Control Strip, and changing the Touch Bar’s appearance.

“Troubleshooting the MacBook Pro Touch Bar: Frequently Asked Questions”

Q: Can I reset the Touch Bar without losing my customized settings?

A: Yes, resetting the Touch Bar does not affect your customized settings or saved shortcuts. They will remain intact after the reset.

Q: Why is my Touch Bar unresponsive or frozen?

A: There could be various reasons, including software glitches, outdated macOS versions, or hardware issues. Try basic troubleshooting steps like restarting your MacBook Pro, checking for software updates, and cleaning the Touch Bar before attempting a reset.

Q: How do I customize the Touch Bar after resetting it?

A: To customize the Touch Bar, open System Preferences, select “Keyboard,” and click on the “Touch Bar” tab. You can add or remove shortcuts, adjust the Control Strip, and change the Touch Bar’s appearance according to your preferences.

Q: Can I use the Touch Bar with an external display?

A: Yes, you can use the Touch Bar with an external display. However, ensure that the Touch Bar is enabled in the display’s settings. You can typically find this option in the display’s on-screen menu.

Q: What should I do if the Touch Bar reset doesn‘t resolve the issue?

A: If the Touch Bar continues to malfunction after resetting, consider contacting Apple Support or taking your MacBook Pro to an authorized Apple service center for further diagnosis and repair.