How to Remove the White Circle in Microsoft Word While Scrolling
Question details
The user wants to get rid of a small white circle that appears over document text when scrolling.
- Product
- Microsoft Word
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Scrolling through a document using a mouse or touch input on a touch-enabled device.
- Observed behavior
- A small white circle acts as an indicator or virtual pointer over the text, blocking parts of the document content while scrolling.
Check whether your computer has a touch screen and decide if you rely on touch functionality for daily use, as the most effective fix involves disabling the touch screen driver entirely.
Disable the HID-Compliant Touch Screen Driver
If you do not use the touch screen feature on your computer, disabling its driver will completely prevent the white touch indicator circle from appearing in Word.
This method turns off the touch capabilities of your monitor. Your standard mouse and keyboard will continue to function normally. You can re-enable the device at any time if you need touch functionality again.
Right-click the Windows Start button and select 'Device Manager' from the context menu.
In the Device Manager window, find and click the arrow next to 'Human Interface Devices' to expand the category.
Right-click on 'HID-compliant touch screen', select 'Properties', navigate to the 'Driver' tab, and click 'Disable Device'. Confirm any prompts that appear.
Turn Off Visual Touch Feedback in Windows Settings
Disable the visual feedback for touch inputs in Windows settings to hide the white circle without having to disable your touch screen completely.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does a white circle appear when I scroll in Microsoft Word?
The white circle is a Windows visual feedback feature designed for touch-screen input. It acts as a virtual pointer to show where the screen is registering a touch, but it can mistakenly activate when using standard mouse scrolling on touch-enabled devices.
Will disabling the HID-compliant touch screen affect my mouse or keyboard?
No. Disabling the HID-compliant touch screen driver only turns off the touch input capability of your display. Your physical mouse, touchpad, and keyboard will continue working perfectly.
What if I need my touch screen but still want the white circle gone?
If you need to maintain touch functionality, you should disable touch visual feedback via Windows Settings. Go to Settings > Ease of Access > Mouse pointer and touch, and turn off the visual feedback option instead of disabling the driver via Device Manager.
