How to Fix Repeated Handwriting Keyboard Pop-Ups in OneNote with a Wacom Tablet
Question details
Users need to stop the Windows handwriting keyboard from repeatedly showing up when using a Wacom pen tablet in OneNote 2016.
- Product
- Microsoft OneNote 2016
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Writing or drawing with a Wacom pen tablet in OneNote 2016 after a recent Office or Windows update.
- Observed behavior
- The on-screen Touch Keyboard and Handwriting Panel repeatedly pops up on the screen, disrupting the user's workflow.
Verify your current OneNote version by navigating to File > Account, and ensure you have administrative privileges on your Windows PC to use the Command Prompt or modify system services.
Roll Back OneNote 2016 to a Previous Version
Since this pop-up issue is a known bug introduced in newer builds, reverting Office to an older, stable version (such as Version 2104) can temporarily resolve it.
Reverting to an earlier build will temporarily remove recently applied security updates. Once Microsoft releases a permanent patch for this bug, you should manually update Office again to stay secure.
Click the Windows Start button, type 'cmd' into the search bar, right-click on 'Command Prompt', and select 'Run as administrator'.
In the Command Prompt window, type 'cd %programfiles%\Common Files\Microsoft Shared\ClickToRun' and press Enter.
Type 'officec2rclient.exe /update user updatetoversion=16.0.13929.20296' (or your preferred older build number) and press Enter to begin the downgrade process.
Wait for the Office updates to finish downloading and installing. Once completed, restart your computer and test your Wacom tablet in OneNote.
Stop the Touch Keyboard and Handwriting Panel Service
If you prefer not to roll back your Office version, you can disable the Windows handwriting service entirely as a temporary workaround.
Try WPS Office for Seamless Stylus Support
If Microsoft Office update bugs are disrupting your workflow, consider switching to WPS Office. It provides smooth, glitch-free stylus support for document annotation and is fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the handwriting keyboard keep popping up?
This is a known bug in certain versions of OneNote 2016 that is triggered after a Windows or Office update when an external pen tablet, such as a Wacom tablet, is connected.
Will disabling the Touch Keyboard service affect other apps?
Yes, completely stopping the Touch Keyboard and Handwriting Panel Service can impact touch input functionalities in other applications, including Windows Terminal.
How do I check my OneNote build version?
Open OneNote 2016, click on 'File' in the top-left corner, and select 'Account' (or 'Help'). You will find the version and build number listed under the 'About OneNote' section.
Is reverting to an older Office build safe?
Reverting removes newer security updates, so it carries minor security risks. It is strictly recommended as a temporary workaround until Microsoft releases a permanent bug fix.
