**Ice: The New Mac App Revolutionizing Menu Bar Organization**
In the constantly evolving digital workspace, where the clutter of icons and apps can often hamper productivity, comes a groundbreaking solution for Mac users—Ice. Developed by Jordan Baird, Ice aims to bring an unprecedented level of order and clarity to the Mac menu bar, setting a new standard in customization and efficiency. This app introduces a novel approach to managing the plethora of icons populating the screens of Apple’s computers, emulating and improving upon the functionalities of predecessors like Bartender and Hidden Bar.
With its innovative design, Ice divides the Mac menu bar into three distinct segments for a cleaner, more organized interface. This segmentation includes the standard system symbols in the right section, a zone for hidden icons accessible with a simple mouse click, and a space for permanently hidden elements. These distinctions allow users to categorize their menu bar apps and icons based on frequency of use—from those in regular rotation to those called upon only in rare instances.
### Interactive and Customizable Interface
One of Ice’s standout features is its interactive and customizable icon management system. A single click on the Ice icon, or on a designated area of the menu bar, reveals the temporarily hidden apps for easy access. Initially represented by a simple dot, the icon can be customized into various shapes such as an arrow, a door, or glasses through the app settings, allowing for a personalized touch.
For users wanting to view permanently hidden symbols, a right-click on the app icon does the trick. Additionally, Ice offers the option to create keyboard shortcuts for unveiling both hidden and always hidden icon sectors, enhancing user interaction and accessibility. The app also allows users to set visual highlights in the menu bar area, contributing further to a clutter-free and aesthetically pleasing workspace.
### Tailored Organization
Upon launching, Ice automatically hides all third-party app symbols in the menu bar. Users then have the liberty to determine which icons remain visible or concealed. This is achieved by enabling the „Hidden“ and „Always Hidden“ sections and then dragging and dropping the respective icons between these segments while holding down the command key. Such flexibility caters to personal preferences, ensuring that only the most essential icons are in sight, while others remain discreetly out of the way.
### Current Availability and Future Prospects
Ice is currently in its developmental version 0.7.1 and is available for free download via the project’s GitHub page. Despite being in active development, the app is already making waves among Mac users eager for a more streamlined and organized menu bar. Jordan Baird, the visionary behind Ice, assures that the app will see continuous enhancements and feature integrations to meet the evolving needs of its users.
In a digital age where screen real estate is as valuable as physical workspace, Ice represents not just an app but a movement towards efficient, clutter-free computing. Its innovative approach to menu bar management positions it as a must-have tool for Mac users striving for superior organization and productivity.
source: https://www.ifun.de/ice-neue-mac-app-sorgt-fuer-ordnung-in-der-menueleiste-229434/
