Zapbar Support

Zapbar is a menu bar remote for your TV. Questions or bug reports: chang.jim@gmail.com. Please say your Mac's macOS version and your TV's make and model.

1. Why does my TV need network debugging on?

Zapbar uses it to type on the TV and to open apps and files. Turn on Developer options on the TV (in About, tap the build number seven times), then switch on network debugging or wireless debugging. Menu names vary by TV. Sony sets use IP control with a pre-shared key for the remote buttons; network debugging is only needed for typing. The setup window in Zapbar shows each step. The switch can't be skipped.

2. The TV shows an "Allow" prompt. What do I do?

Choose Allow on the TV, and tick "Always allow from this computer" if it is offered, so it doesn't ask again. If you missed the prompt, quit and reopen Zapbar, or add the TV again from the menu bar.

3. Zapbar can't find my TV.

Check that the Mac and TV are on the same Wi-Fi or network, not a guest network. Open System Settings, then Privacy & Security, then Local Network, and make sure Zapbar is on. Turn off any VPN and try again. If it still can't find it, choose Add a TV and type the TV's IP address, which is in the TV's network settings.

4. Can I type Chinese or other languages?

No. Zapbar types English only. Letters, numbers and common symbols only.

5. How do I uninstall Zapbar and its helper?

The helper (adb) is inside the app, so there is nothing else to install or remove. Quit Zapbar from its menu, drag it to the Trash, and, if you want, open Keychain Access, search for “pohstep”, and delete the items for your TV keys. If a background process named adb is still running, restart your Mac or end it in Activity Monitor.