The small keyboard on the iPad can be quite troublesome for users, especially those with larger fingers or who prefer using an external keyboard. Fortunately, there are several methods you can use to disable the small keyboard on your iPad and make typing easier. In this blog post, we will explore these methods in detail and provide step-by-step instructions on how to disable the small keyboard. Whether you’re a casual user or a professional who heavily relies on your iPad for work, these methods will surely come in handy.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Disable Small Keyboard on iPad
There are several reasons why you may need to disable the small keyboard on your iPad. Firstly, the small keyboard can be challenging to use, especially for individuals with larger hands or visually impaired users. Additionally, some users may prefer using an external keyboard for a more comfortable and efficient typing experience. By disabling the small keyboard, you can seamlessly switch to using an external keyboard or even the iPad’s larger keyboard layout.
Method 1: Using the Settings
Disabling the small keyboard on your iPad can be done through the device’s settings. This is the quickest and most straightforward method. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Open the "Settings" app on your iPad.
Step 2: Scroll down and tap on "General."
Step 3: Tap on "Keyboard."
Step 4: Toggle off the "Enable Key Flicks" option.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and quick method to disable the small keyboard. | 1. Disabling key flicks will also disable the QuickType feature. |
| 2. Can be easily reversed if you decide to re-enable the small keyboard. | 2. Disabling key flicks may prevent you from using certain keyboard shortcuts. |
| 3. Works across all apps on your iPad. | 3. May not be suitable for individuals who want to keep the QuickType feature enabled. |
Method 2: Using an External Keyboard
If you have an external keyboard connected to your iPad, you can easily disable the small keyboard by utilizing the external keyboard’s layout. Here’s how:
Step 1: Connect your external keyboard to your iPad.
Step 2: Open any app that requires text input.
Step 3: Press the globe icon on your external keyboard to switch to a different keyboard layout. This will replace the small keyboard with a larger one.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides a larger keyboard layout for easier typing. | 1. Requires an external keyboard to be connected to your iPad. |
| 2. Works across all apps on your iPad. | 2. May not be suitable for individuals who prefer using the iPad’s on-screen keyboard. |
| 3. Can easily switch back to the small keyboard by pressing the globe icon again. | 3. External keyboard layouts may vary depending on the model. |
Method 3: Using Split Keyboard
The split keyboard feature on the iPad allows you to divide the keyboard into two halves, making it easier to type with your thumbs. By enabling the split keyboard, you effectively disable the small keyboard. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Open any app that requires text input.
Step 2: Tap and hold on the keyboard button located at the bottom right corner of the on-screen keyboard.
Step 3: Select the "Split" option from the menu that appears.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides a larger keyboard layout specifically designed for thumb-typing. | 1. May not be suitable for individuals who don’t prefer the split keyboard layout. |
| 2. Works across all apps on your iPad. | 2. Requires readjustment to typing technique. |
| 3. Can be easily merged back to the regular keyboard layout by tapping and holding the keyboard button and selecting the "Dock and Merge" option. | 3. Split keyboard may cover a portion of your screen when in use. |
Method 4: Via Accessibility Options
The accessibility options on the iPad provide a range of features to assist users with disabilities or those who prefer alternative input methods. By utilizing the accessibility options, you can customize the keyboard layout and appearance to suit your preferences. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Open the "Settings" app on your iPad.
Step 2: Scroll down and tap on "Accessibility."
Step 3: Tap on "Keyboard."
Step 4: Choose any of the available keyboard options, such as "Dvorak," "Colemak," or "AZERTY."
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides a wide range of keyboard layouts to choose from. | 1. Requires adjustments to typing technique for non-standard keyboard layouts. |
| 2. Allows you to customize the keyboard appearance by adjusting the key size, color, and other options. | 2. Customized keyboard layouts may not be compatible with all apps. |
| 3. Works across all apps on your iPad. | 3. May require additional time for users to acclimate to non-standard keyboard layouts. |
What to Do If You Can’t Disable Small Keyboard on iPad
In some cases, you may encounter difficulties or limitations when trying to disable the small keyboard on your iPad. Here are a few potential fixes:
1. Restart your iPad: Sometimes, a simple restart can resolve any temporary issues or glitches affecting the small keyboard.
2. Update your iPad’s software: Keeping your iPad’s software up to date ensures that you have access to the latest features and bug fixes, which may include improvements to the small keyboard.
3. Contact Apple Support: If none of the above solutions work, reaching out to Apple Support can provide you with further assistance and guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Bonus Tips
Here are three bonus tips to enhance your iPad typing experience:
1. Utilize keyboard shortcuts: iPadOS includes a range of keyboard shortcuts that can help you navigate and perform tasks more efficiently. Familiarize yourself with common keyboard shortcuts to speed up your workflow.
2. Customize the keyboard settings: Experiment with the various keyboard settings in the iPad’s "Settings" app to find the optimal configuration for your typing preferences. You can adjust settings such as auto-capitalization, auto-correction, and key click sounds.
3. Explore third-party keyboard apps: If the default iPad keyboard doesn’t meet your needs, consider exploring third-party keyboard apps available on the App Store. These apps often provide additional customization options and specialized features.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I re-enable the small keyboard after disabling it?
A: Yes, depending on the method you used to disable the small keyboard, you can easily re-enable it by reversing the steps or settings changes.
Q2: Can I disable the small keyboard for certain apps only?
A: Unfortunately, the small keyboard settings are usually applied system-wide, affecting all apps that use the on-screen keyboard. However, using an external keyboard can offer a larger typing experience for specific apps.
Q3: Will disabling the small keyboard affect other features like QuickType?
A: Disabling the small keyboard may also disable related features like QuickType, which provides word suggestions as you type. It’s worth considering the trade-off between keyboard size and convenience.
Q4: Can I use third-party keyboards on my iPad to disable the small keyboard?
A: Yes, third-party keyboard apps from the App Store can offer alternative keyboard layouts and customization options. They may provide a larger or more specialized keyboard experience.
Q5: Will disabling the small keyboard affect other input methods on my iPad?
A: Disabling the small keyboard should not affect other input methods like handwriting recognition or voice typing. These input methods operate independently of the on-screen keyboard.
Final Thoughts
Disabling the small keyboard on your iPad can greatly improve your typing experience, especially if you prefer using an external keyboard or have difficulty with the smaller layout. Whether you choose to adjust the settings, utilize an external keyboard, split the keyboard, or explore accessibility options, there’s a method available to suit your preferences. By following the detailed steps outlined in this blog post, you can disable the small keyboard on your iPad and enjoy a more comfortable and efficient typing experience.