What is touchbarserver?

touchbarserver runs on MacBook Pro models with a Touch Bar.

What is touchbarserver?

touchbarserver manages the Touch Bar, the small touch screen that replaced the function keys on MacBook Pro models from 2016 to 2021. It draws the interface, reads your touches, and works with apps to show the right controls.

What does it do?

touchbarserver handles:

• Drawing buttons, sliders, and other controls on the Touch Bar
• Reading touch and swipe input
• Switching between app controls and system controls
• Showing the Control Strip (volume, brightness, and so on)
• Talking to the T1 or T2 chip that drives the Touch Bar hardware
• Working with the Touch ID button

Does it run on Macs without a Touch Bar?

No. On MacBook Pro models from 2021 onward (which have physical function keys again), MacBook Air, iMac, Mac mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro, this process does not run.

Does it use many resources?

Very few. The Touch Bar display is small and simple. If an app sends rapid updates, processor use may rise slightly.

Can you change what the Touch Bar shows?

Yes. Go to System Settings, Keyboard, Touch Bar Settings. You can choose what appears by default and set up the Control Strip. Some apps also let you change their Touch Bar controls through the View menu.

Should you worry?

No. It is a normal process on Touch Bar MacBook Pros. If the Touch Bar stops responding, restarting the process can help:

sudo killall touchbarserver

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