Ubuntu (Linux OS) provides a built-in On-Screen Keyboard (Virtual Keyboard) feature, which is very useful if your physical keyboard is not working properly or you want touch-based input. In this guide, I’ll show you step by step how to enable and use the on-screen keyboard in Ubuntu.
🔹 Introduction
The On-Screen Keyboard (OSK) in Ubuntu is a handy accessibility tool. It helps users type without a physical keyboard using only a mouse, touchscreen, or any pointing device. Whether you’re using Ubuntu for the first time or just need a virtual keyboard for temporary use, enabling it is quick and simple.
🔹 Step 1: Open Settings in Ubuntu
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Click on the “Settings” icon from the system menu.
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In the Settings window, look for the Accessibility option.
🔹 Step 2: Enable On-Screen Keyboard
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Inside Accessibility, scroll down to the Typing section.
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Turn ON the option “Screen Keyboard”.
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The On-Screen Keyboard will now appear whenever you select a text field.
🔹 Step 3: Alternative Method (Terminal Command)
You can also enable the on-screen keyboard using the terminal:
gsettings set org.gnome.desktop.a11y.applications screen-keyboard-enabled true
To disable it again:
gsettings set org.gnome.desktop.a11y.applications screen-keyboard-enabled false
🔹 Step 4: Launch Onboard (Ubuntu’s Virtual Keyboard App)
Ubuntu also provides Onboard, which is another virtual keyboard app:
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Open Terminal and type:
sudo apt install onboard -
Once installed, run it by typing:
onboard
🔹 Key Features
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Easy to enable via Accessibility settings.
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Works with both mouse and touchscreen.
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Alternative Onboard app available for more customization.
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Perfect for accessibility, touchscreen devices, or temporary keyboard issues.
🔹 Perfect For
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Users with a broken or non-functional physical keyboard.
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Touchscreen-based Ubuntu devices (like tablets).
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Accessibility support for people with physical limitations.
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Beginners learning to use Ubuntu effectively.
🔹 FAQ (Simple English)
Q1: Is the on-screen keyboard available in all Ubuntu versions?
Yes, but the interface may look slightly different depending on version.
Q2: Can I customize the keyboard layout?
Yes, in Onboard, you can change layout, themes, and size.
Q3: Do I need to install any extra software?
No, Ubuntu has a built-in on-screen keyboard. But you can install Onboard for more features.
Q4: Can I disable the on-screen keyboard later?
Yes, just turn it OFF from Accessibility settings or use the disable terminal command.
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