Mastering Globe Key Shortcuts on iPad
- Difficulty
- Beginner
- Tested on
- iPadOS 18.4 - iPad Pro M4
- You will need
- iPad with iPadOS 13.4 or later, Apple Magic Keyboard or compatible external keyboard
Step by step
Verify Globe key behavior
Navigate to Settings > General > Keyboard > Hardware Keyboard. Tap Globe Key to ensure it is set to the desired function, such as Show Emoji or Change Input Method.
Note: On keyboards without a dedicated Globe key, the Fn key serves the same function.Open the App Switcher
Press Globe + Up Arrow to trigger the App Switcher interface. Use the Left or Right arrow keys to select an app and press Enter to switch.
Note: Use this to move between active applications without lifting your hands from the keyboard.Invoke Spotlight Search
Press Globe + Space to open the Spotlight search bar. Begin typing the name of an app, file, or contact to locate it instantly.
Note: Spotlight is the fastest way to launch applications from any screen.Access the App Library
Press Globe + A to jump directly to the App Library. This view categorizes your applications automatically for quick selection.
Note: Type immediately after opening the App Library to filter apps by name.Display keyboard shortcuts
Press and hold the Globe key or the Command key within any application to view a list of app-specific shortcuts. Release the key to return to the active app.
Note: This provides a context-aware cheat sheet for every app you use.