Touchbar Killer for Windows?

The video starts by addressing a common skepticism toward gimmicks, using the Asus ZenBook Pro UX580GE as a case study for whether a touchscreen integrated into the touchpad can be a meaningful feature. The host explains that while the screenpad initially felt gimmicky, it gradually proves to be more usable than expected, offering contextual shortcuts and the ability to act as an extended display. However, several caveats surface early on: the touchpad sometimes behaves like a normal trackpad with surprisingly good tactile feedback, but certain app contexts, such as when Spotify is open, disable touchpad functionality, which undermines intended convenience. The reviewer emphasizes that the screenpad is not yet a universal selling point, and its value remains contingent on software support and future SDK development. Throughout, the video juxtaposes the zenbook’s premium build with tradeoffs like chassis rigidity and fingerprint magnet, ultimately noting that its standout features are the top-tier screen and the potential of app ecosystem improvements. The conclusion acknowledges solid design and strong performance potential, yet argues the price and current thermals keep it from outperforming established rivals until thermal management and software maturity improve. Overall, the reviewer is cautiously optimistic about the direction Asus is taking, hoping for continued refinement and broader app support to unlock the screenpad’s full value.

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