The Busy Bar is a $249 device that does more than inform your boss you are busy

The Busy Bar is the latest product from Flipper Devices, the creators of the multi-tool device, Flipper Zero. Described as “a productivity multi-tool device”, Busy Bar is a dual-display device that shows when a user is busy. While that greatly simplifies it, the device is actually feature-packed.

Right out of the box, the Busy Bar can be turned on to display a status that says “Busy”. Users can also choose to let it display a timer, using the scroll wheel, to show how long they are busy. There's also the option to display a custom message or connect it to your phone or computer. When connected to a computer, the Busy Bar will automatically display an “On Call” status once your computer's microphone or camera is active.

It can also display info from apps and computer programs such as the clock and weather apps; or stats from YouTube and Instagram. Busy Bar has a companion app for Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS that users can download. When connected to a phone or PC, Busy Bar can automatically mute notifications when busy mode is activated. There's even the option to block apps, preventing distractions until the set timer ends.

Flipper Devices have even added support for smart home devices (supports Matter and Home Assistant) such that when Busy Bar is active, connected smart home devices such smart speakers, door locks, and lights can carry out preset actions. It can even be configured to display a message when the washing machine has completed a cycle.

The Busy Bar has a main 72 x 16 dot matrix (RGB) display on the front and a smaller 1.54-inch 160 x 80 monochrome display on the back that faces the user. On the top of the device is a large trapezoid-shaped start and pause button, a selector for switching between modes, a pushable knob for setting the timer, and an orange back button.

It can be mounted on a monitor, placed on a desk, or mounted on a wall or door. It has a 3,250mAh rechargeable battery that can provide up to 8 hours of use and last up to 2 weeks in standby. Charging is via USB-C and it supports 15W fast charging. Busy Bar comes with an open HTTP (offline) API, allowing users to integrate the device into their projects.

The Busy Bar is priced at $249 and is available to buy now. It comes with the mounts and a USB-C cable but owners will have to provide their own charger.