Mac users universally emphasize the significance and advantages of our Dock, with Windows‘ latest version seemingly drawing inspiration from it. Nevertheless, the menu bar positioned at the top holds utmost importance in our interaction with macOS. Hence, this article aims to explore techniques for organizing and customizing the menu bar in a significantly more efficient manner, tailored to our personal preferences.
Rearrange the icons in the menu bar
To enhance organization and optimize search efficiency, it’s important to be aware that certain menu bar items are fixed and cannot be repositioned, such as the control center, which limits customization options. However, movable functions like Wi-Fi and top applications can be rearranged effortlessly by holding down the Command button.
Removing icons from the macOS menu bar is also possible, allowing for a streamlined selection of essential icons. To achieve this, repeat the aforementioned process by using the Command key and dragging the desired icon. This time, drop the icon outside the menu bar until a circular indicator appears, signifying removal of the function.
Furthermore, let’s explore how to add icons to the menu bar. Start by accessing the Mac’s control center and simply drag any desired element that you wish to include in the menu bar. Likewise, deletion follows a similar process as described above: hold the Command key, drag the item to the desktop, and release it.
Please note that the option to add icons is somewhat limited. To proceed, navigate to the System Settings or System Preferences (if your macOS version predates Ventura), and access the control center, where you’ll find all available modules.
Take advantage of your control center
We have now explored the primary functions of the Mac menu bar, with the Control Center standing out as one of the most important. Within the Control Center, we have access to various versatile functions, which we will describe below:
- Dragging a slider: Adjust settings by dragging a slider up or down. For instance, you can use the Sound slider to increase or decrease the volume on your Mac.
- Clicking an icon: Turn features on or off by simply clicking their corresponding icons. This is applicable, for example, when using AirDrop.
- Clicking on an item: Some items in the Control Center offer additional options when clicked. For instance, clicking on “Focus” displays a list of available Focus Modes that can be toggled on or off. Similarly, clicking on “Screen Mirroring” allows you to select a target screen for mirroring.
The Control Center can be further customized to better suit our individual needs. To begin, navigate to System Settings and click on the Control Center. From there, you can configure the following options:
- Control Center Modules: This section displays items that are always visible in the Control Center, and they cannot be removed. However, you have the choice to display them in the menu bar as well. Simply click the dropdown next to an item and select your preferred option.
- Other modules: In this section, you can add items to both the Control Center and the menu bar. Toggle the options beneath each item on or off according to your preferences. Some items may also offer additional settings for customization.
- Menu bar only: Customize the clock options in the menu bar and add other items to the bar as desired.
By personalizing these settings, you can make the Control Center and menu bar align more closely with your specific requirements.