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Fix Apple Magic Keyboard Keys Not Working in Microsoft 365

Steven Parker Oct 16, 2026 869 views

Question details

The user is experiencing incorrect behavior with the Space and Tab keys on an Apple Magic Keyboard while attempting to type in Microsoft 365.

How to Fix Apple Magic Keyboard Keys Not Working in Microsoft 365

Product: Microsoft 365
Device & OS: macOS and iPadOS
Scenario: Typing documents in Microsoft 365 applications or browsing in Safari using an Apple Magic Keyboard connected to a Mac or iPad.
Observed behavior: The Space and Tab keys behave incorrectly or fail to register inputs consistently across multiple applications and devices.

Before you start

Ensure your Apple Magic Keyboard is sufficiently charged and securely connected via Bluetooth before attempting any software troubleshooting.

Solution 1Recommended

Update macOS and iPadOS Software

System glitches or outdated Bluetooth drivers can cause keyboard connectivity and input issues across multiple applications.

Because the keyboard behaves incorrectly outside Microsoft applications (such as in Safari), the issue is likely related to the operating system or hardware rather than Microsoft 365 itself.

Update Mac

Navigate to 'System Settings' (or 'System Preferences') on your Mac, click on 'General', then select 'Software Update' to install any available macOS updates.

Update iPad

On your iPad, open the 'Settings' app, go to 'General', select 'Software Update', and install any pending iPadOS updates.

Restart Devices

After updating, restart both your Mac and your iPad to ensure the new system configurations and Bluetooth drivers are fully applied.

Cross-Device Check: Similar symptoms on a Mac and an iPad may not necessarily have the exact same software cause, but keeping both updated provides a stable baseline for troubleshooting.

Solution 2

Test the Keyboard in Alternative Applications

Isolate whether the malfunction is specific to Microsoft apps or a broader hardware issue.

Solution 3

Perform Hardware Diagnostics

If the keyboard fails across multiple devices and applications, the physical hardware may be defective and require professional repair.

Free Microsoft Office alternative

Try WPS Office for Seamless Document Editing on Mac and iPad

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1. Download the Installer: Visit the official WPS Office website and download the correct version for your Mac or iOS device.
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Fully compatible with Microsoft Office formats including .docx, .xlsx, and .pptxLightweight application that runs smoothly on Mac and iPad devicesFree to use with a familiar, user-friendly interface requiring no learning curveExcellent peripheral support ensuring reliable typing and hardware interaction

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are only the Space and Tab keys not working on my Magic Keyboard?

Specific key failures often indicate debris stuck under the keys, physical hardware wear, or an accessibility setting (like Full Keyboard Access on Mac) interfering with standard key functions.

Could Microsoft 365 be causing my Apple Keyboard to malfunction?

If the keyboard works perfectly in Apple Notes and Safari but fails only in Microsoft 365, it could be an application-specific bug. However, if it fails across multiple apps and devices, it is a system or hardware issue.

How do I reset the Bluetooth connection on my Mac to fix keyboard lag?

You can unpair the keyboard by going to System Settings > Bluetooth, clicking the 'i' icon next to your keyboard, and selecting 'Forget This Device'. Restart your Mac, then turn your keyboard off and back on to pair it again.

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