If you're using an external keyboard with your iPad or Vision Pro and notice that some keys—such as the Space bar—aren't working properly in Screens, it's possible that Full Keyboard Access is enabled in your device's accessibility settings.
What is Full Keyboard Access?
Full Keyboard Access is an accessibility feature in iPadOS and visionOS that lets you control your entire device using only an external keyboard. It’s designed primarily for users with limited mobility who rely on keyboards instead of touch or gesture-based navigation.
When enabled, the system captures most keyboard input—including Space, Return, Tab, and arrow keys—to navigate the interface. This behavior interferes with apps like Screens, which need to receive those keystrokes directly during remote sessions.
How it Affects Screens
With Full Keyboard Access turned on:
- Screens may not receive essential key input (e.g. Space, Return, Function keys).
- Remote interactions can feel unresponsive or broken, especially when trying to type or use keyboard shortcuts on the remote system.
This issue affects both iPad and Vision Pro when using an external keyboard.
How to Check and Disable Full Keyboard Access
On iPad:
- Open the Settings app.
- Go to Accessibility > Keyboards.
- Tap Full Keyboard Access.
- Turn Full Keyboard Access off.
On Vision Pro:
- Open Settings using the pinch gesture or Siri.
- Go to Accessibility > Keyboards.
- Select Full Keyboard Access and toggle it off.
Once disabled, Screens will receive raw keyboard input correctly, and keys like Space, Tab, and Return will work as expected.
When Should You Enable It?
Enable Full Keyboard Access only if:
- You rely on keyboard navigation due to accessibility needs.
- You don’t need raw keyboard input for apps like Screens.
For most users, we recommend leaving Full Keyboard Access turned off to ensure full compatibility with Screens and other remote control tools.