Do Random Apps Appear When You Press a Key on Windows? Try These 6 Fixes
Does an app pop up randomly on your Windows device when you press any key? In most cases, this issue is caused by a stuck Ctrl or Shift key. In some instances, you’ll encounter this problem due to the way you’ve configured some system settings.
But whatever the case may be, we’ve got solutions for you! So, let’s dive in and explore some easy fixes you could apply.
1. Ensure That the Ctrl and Shift Keys Aren’t Stuck
Ever triedusing the Windows shortcutsbefore? If so, then you probably know that most shortcuts involve holding down theCtrland/orShiftkeys and pressing a letter or number key.
For example, you can pressCtrl + Cto copy a line of text, and then pressCtrl + Vto paste the text. Meanwhile, pressingCtrl + Shift + Escopens up the Task Manager.
Now, let’s say either the Ctrl or Shift key is stuck. If you press any key in this instance, this might trigger a certain shortcut and then launch a random app. To tackle the problem, you’d have to ensure that the Ctrl and Shift keys aren’t stuck.
Press theCtrlandShiftkeys repeatedly to check if they’re stuck. Also, ensure that there isn’t any dirt stuck between these keys.
Alternatively, check if the keys are stuck using the on-screen keyboard. Here are the steps you need to follow:
If you’re using a desktop device, then you should also consider plugging in a different keyboard and see if that helps.
2. Disable the “Sticky Keys” Option
Pressing some keys might launch random apps if the “Sticky keys” option is enabled.
The “Sticky keys” feature allows keys like Ctrl and Shift to remain active even when you’re not pressing them. That way, you won’t have to press the Ctrl and Shift keys if you use the shortcuts that involve pressing them and other keys. Simply put, if the “Sticky keys” feature is enabled, you can launch some apps using only one button (and not various key combinations).
But then, of course, Sticky keys might end up launching random apps on your screen. So, let’s check out how it’s possible to disable this feature:
Also, uncheck theAllow the shortcut key to start Sticky Keysbox. When this box is checked, the Sticky Keys feature will be enabled if you press the Shift key five times.
3. Disable the Windows Ink Workspace Feature
The Windows Ink Workspace tool allows you to launch various apps like Sticky Notes, Snip & Sketch, and more. It also allows you to perform quick actions, such as accessing and managing your recently opened files.
you may use this tool with a mouse, keyboard, and digital pen.
In some rare instances, enabling the Windows Ink Workspace might interfere with the functionality of your keyboard. So, this tool might be the reason you see random apps on your screen when you press any key.
To resolve the issue, disable the Windows Ink Workspace through these steps:
Alternatively, disable this tool using the Local Group Policy Editor. Here are the steps you need to follow:
Select eitherNot ConfiguredorDisabledon the next screen. ClickApplyand then clickOKto save these changes. This should disable the “Allow Windows Ink Workspace” option.
Now, follow the previous steps and disable theAllow suggested apps in Windows Ink Workspaceoption. From there, close the Local Group Policy Editor and then restart your PC.
4. Tweak the Relevant Registry Keys
Encountering issues while trying to disable the Windows Ink Workspace? Tryediting the Windows Registryinstead.
Apply this method only if you can’t disable the Windows Ink Workspace via the system settings or the Local Group Policy Editor. If you edit the wrong Registry keys, you might end up damaging your device.
Now, here’s how you can disable the Windows Ink Workspace using the Registry Editor:
From there, follow these steps:
Double-click on theAllowWindowsInkWorkspacevalue, set theValue dataas0, and then clickOK. This should disable the Windows Ink Workspace tool. To enable the feature later, follow the previous steps and set theValue dataas1.
From there, close the Registry Editor and restart your device.
5. Temporarily Disable Hotkey Software Programs
Hotkey software programs (like theAutoHotkeytool) come with a collection of keyboard shortcuts that allow you to perform all sorts of tasks. For example, these tools can help you easily launch various apps or control the volume with just a few clicks.
But then, these tools might be the reason you’re seeing random apps when you press any key. So, the best solution would be to temporarily disable your hotkey software programs.
Alternatively, you may uninstall these tools through these steps:
Finally, restart your device to save these changes.
6. Run the Keyboard Troubleshooter or Update the Keyboard Drivers
Since this is a system-related issue, you may resolve itusing the relevant Windows troubleshooters. For instance, you’d need to use the keyboard troubleshooter in this instance.
And if that doesn’t help, considerupdating Windows, your apps, and outdated system drivers. In this case, you’d have to update or reinstall the keyboard drivers.
No More Random Apps on Your Screen
It’s annoying when your Windows device keeps displaying random apps unexpectedly. But the good news is that you may tackle this problem using any of the solutions we’ve covered.
Seeing other pop-ups on your device and not sure where they come from? There are solutions for that too!
Seeing pop-ups and not sure where they came from? Here’s a quick guide to diagnosing and dealing with Windows pop-ups.
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