FunctionFlip for Mac

FunctionFlip for Mac lets you change the behavior of the top row of keys on your MacBook keyboard, overriding the system defaults. Keys that are flipped will not perform their default function unless you hold the "fn" key.

With just a double-click, the utility installs as a System Preferences pane on your Mac. You can select on a key by key basis whether you want a specific key to have its default setting, like volume and lighting controls, or switch to a normal function key such as F1, F2, etc. We tested out F7, F8, and F9, flipping them to function key use. By default, these keys are the Previous Track, Play, and Next Track button, respectively, for controlling iTunes. After flipping them, the buttons did nothing, which was expected, since these have no use other than in specific programs. To access the default actions, we pressed the "fn" key and F8, and iTunes started playing, as expected. FunctionFlip for Mac also supports multiple keyboards, so if you dock your MacBook you can control an external keyboard, as well.

FunctionFlip for Mac offers a good solution for those who use software that requires the Function keys, but don't want to push the "fn" key each time. It will also be useful to users who don't like the default position of media keys on their MacBook.