Most of us know what the majority of Mac keyboard shortcuts. But did you know that the option key can perform additional actions whether you use the keyboard or the mouse?. For example, you can duplicate a file by dragging it while holding down the ⌥
This key also works in menus. That's what this tutorial is about. To be able to discover the hidden functions existing in the menu bar, where the Wifi, Time Machine, Bluetooth, volume and the notification center are located.
Additional options in the menu bar with the option key
We will logically use the option key that you must leave pressed while with the mouse you click on any of the mentioned elements and existing in the menu bar.
We start with the most special of all.
The notification center:
In this case, more than an additional function We will see that an action occurs. So we keep the option key pressed, we click on the notification center and automatically, the notifications will be silenced until the next day.
Let's see what happens with Bluetooth:
By clicking on it, we will see a list of the paired devices. But if we do it next to the option key, We will see a detailed description of each of these devices. We can also have options to navigate and send files to other devices, among others.
Shift for volume:
Something similar to Bluetooth, happens with the volume. This time we will see a list of available audio input devices, including those that can be paired by AirPlay.
Wifi:
In this menu, we will find the most developed menu. The details of the Wi-Fi network to which we are connected at that moment will be displayed. Name, channel, signal and noise.
We can also click on the new elements to enable logging and diagnostic tools.
Last menu value, Time Machine:
Time Machine, the tool to make backup copies that although it is not the best, if it is free. By pressing the option key, we can browse non-default backup disks.
Finally, as a bonus. You should know that the option key You can also discover additional functions in the menus of third-party applications. So don't stop and try all of them.