How to Disable the Keyboard on a Chromebook

The Chromebook isn't your typical laptop. The main idea behind the features and design of the Chromebook is that internet access is more important than the computer itself.

With that in mind, it makes sense that Chromebooks aren't as powerful as traditional desktops or laptops. However, they have some features that let you do some cool things. You can set up software that will make your Chromebook setup look like a laptop.

In general, the Chromebook is designed to be extremely user-friendly. Anyone can figure out how it works in just a few minutes. However, there are some features that many users have trouble getting around.

For example, you may have trouble understanding how to turn off the on-screen keyboard feature. This is exactly what this article will examine.

Disabling the on-screen keyboard

It's no surprise that the Chromebook comes with a touchscreen. The on-screen keyboard can interfere with some functionality, so here's what you need to do to turn it off.

1. Sign in, then open your Chromebook's menu. Click on the status area, located at the bottom right of your screen, or press Alt + May + S.
   
2. Check if you have the Reduced mobility feature in your Chromebook's menu.

In case you don't have the Reduced mobility displayed in your menu, follow the steps below to enable it before continuing:

1. Click on the Parameters in the lower left corner of your Chromebook's menu.
2. Now, in the Parameters for your Chromebook account, click on the three horizontal lines located in the upper left corner of your screen.
3. Find and select the Advanced option from the displayed drop-down menu.
   
4. From the drop-down menu, select Reduced mobility.
5. Toggle it Always show accessibility options in system menu Possibility of At.
   
6. The Reduced mobility The option should now be displayed in your Chromebook's system menu.

Now, let's continue with disabling the on-screen keyboard.

1. Click on Reduced mobility and choose the Manage accessibility features option.
2. Scroll down and find the Keyboard section.
3. Toggle it Enable on-screen keyboard Possibility of disabled.

After performing the last step, your keyboard will no longer appear on your screen as you type.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you use Windows apps on a Chromebook?

The short answer is “yes”, but things aren't quite that simple.

You can simply download and install an Android app called CrossOver. The CrossOver app serves as a Windows emulator, allowing you to use and download Windows apps from it.

However, since Chromebooks aren't designed for this, some apps may crash or not work at all. If you need Windows apps for work or entertainment, you can expect some inconvenience. The technology will probably improve in future releases.

What apps does the Chromebook support?

The Chromebook allows its users to install a variety of different apps that will ease their user experience. The goal is to make it similar to the experience of using a regular computer or laptop.

Originally, the Chromebook was designed and optimized only for applications developed by Google, such as Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Drive, etc. However, this limits users in terms of creativity and work they can do on the device, so Google needs to work on their Chromebook system.

They had to allow the installation of apps from different platforms on this device. Nowadays, Chromebook users can not only install and use Google's programs, but they can also use Android apps.

With that in mind, you have to go through the Google Play Store to access the apps you need. Sometimes this presents a unique set of challenges. For example, the Chromebook OS does not support the Microsoft Office suite, so you won't be able to use some of the programs you're used to, such as Microsoft Word, Adobe Photoshop, etc. But you can find good Android apps that can serve as replacements.

Unfortunately, not all Chromebook laptops support Android apps. Keep this in mind when shopping, especially if you're considering buying a used Chromebook.

Can you temporarily disable the physical keyboard on a Chromebook?

From research, this doesn't seem to be possible without unplugging the keyboard cable. Unless you want to void a warranty and have to take your Chromebook apart every time, it's not worth it.

Customize your Chromebook software

Although the Chromebook isn't as powerful as a regular laptop, it lets you experiment. With a little research and patience, you can install apps that will let you use it for almost anything. If necessary, it is simple to remove the on-screen keyboard.

But the main thing is this. If you need a laptop for serious work, the Chromebook shouldn't be your first choice — at least, it's not here yet.