The Busy Bar functions as an oversized, app-connected status indicator designed to signal availability to coworkers while managing personal focus. Equipped with a 72 x 16 LED screen, the device allows users to toggle between status messages like “busy” or “on call” using a manual button and scroll wheel. Beyond its primary display, it features a secondary screen on the back for battery and connectivity monitoring, plus a folding stand for wall or monitor mounting.
Flipper Devices pivots from pentesting to desk-bound productivity
A physical countdown timer might seem like a low-tech solution for a high-tech problem, but the makers of Flipper Zero are betting that a $249 pixelated display can successfully automate your workspace boundaries and silence the digital noise of modern office life.
What separates this hardware from a simple sign is its deep software integration. By connecting via Wi-Fi or USB-C, the device syncs with calendars and communication platforms like Zoom to update status messages in real time. It supports the Matter protocol, enabling it to trigger smart home actions—such as locking a door or adjusting lighting—the moment a meeting begins. Furthermore, the accompanying Busy app can enforce focus by blocking notifications and restricting access to social media on linked smartphones. For those inclined toward customization, an open-source SDK allows the hardware to function as a live data dashboard or a notification hub for Home Assistant users.
Comments (0)
No comments yet. Be the first!