Are you frustrated with your Apple keyboard suddenly switching to a foreign language, making it difficult for you to type efficiently? You’re not alone! This common issue can occur unintentionally, leaving you wondering how to revert back to the familiar English keyboard layout. Fear not, dear reader, for we’ve got you covered. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of changing your Apple keyboard back to English on various Apple devices.
Why Does My Apple Keyboard Keep Changing Languages?
Before we dive into the solution, let’s quickly explore the possible reasons behind this phenomenon.
Accidental Key Presses
One common reason for the language switch is accidental key presses. You might have inadvertently pressed the Command (⌘) + Space keys, which toggle between input languages. This is especially true if you’re using a MacBook or iMac with a compact keyboard, where the keys are closely spaced.
Language Settings
Another possibility is that you or someone else might have changed the language settings on your device. This can occur when you’re setting up a new device, restoring from a backup, or exploring the language options out of curiosity.
Third-Party App Interference
In some cases, a third-party app might be causing the language switch. This could be due to a compatibility issue or a feature that’s not functioning as intended.
Changing Your Apple Keyboard Back to English on macOS
Now that we’ve covered the possible reasons, let’s get started with the solution for macOS devices.
Method 1: Using the Menu Bar
The easiest way to switch back to the English keyboard on a Mac is by using the menu bar. Here’s how:
- Click on the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen.
- Select System Preferences from the dropdown menu.
- Click on Keyboard.
- Select the Input Sources tab.
- Highlight English (or your preferred language) in the left sidebar.
- Click the + icon at the bottom-left corner of the window to add it as the primary input source.
Method 2: Using the Keyboard Shortcut
If you prefer a quicker method, you can use the keyboard shortcut:
- Press the Command (⌘) + Space keys simultaneously.
- This will toggle between your available input languages. Continue pressing the shortcut until you see the English language indicator in the menu bar.
Changing Your Apple Keyboard Back to English on iOS and iPadOS
If you’re using an iPhone or iPad, the process is slightly different.
Method 1: Using the Settings App
To change the keyboard language on your iOS or iPadOS device:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on General.
- Scroll down and tap on Keyboard.
- Tap on Keyboards.
- Find the English keyboard and swipe left to enable it.
- Tap on Edit in the top-right corner.
- Drag the English keyboard to the top of the list to set it as the primary keyboard.
Method 2: Using the Globe Icon
You can also use the Globe icon on your keyboard to quickly switch languages:
- Open an app that uses the keyboard, such as Notes or Messages.
- Tap the Globe icon on the keyboard.
- Tap on English to select it as your preferred language.
Additional Tips and Tricks
To avoid language switching issues in the future, consider these tips:
Disable Multiple Input Sources
If you only need one language, disable the other input sources to prevent accidental switches. On macOS, go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Input Sources, and remove any unnecessary languages. On iOS and iPadOS, go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards, and toggle off the languages you don’t need.
Use the Keyboard Viewer
The Keyboard Viewer is a handy tool that displays a virtual keyboard on your screen, allowing you to see the layout of the currently selected language. To access it on macOS, go to System Preferences > Keyboard > Keyboard Viewer. On iOS and iPadOS, go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboard Viewer.
Reset the NVRAM and SMC
In rare cases, resetting the NVRAM (Non-Volatile RAM) and SMC (System Management Controller) might resolve language switching issues. On Macs, shut down your device, locate the following keys: Power button, Command (⌘) + Option (⌥) + P + R, and press them simultaneously while powering on. Hold the keys for 20 seconds, then release. On iOS and iPadOS devices, simply restart your device.
Conclusion
Changing your Apple keyboard back to English is a relatively straightforward process, regardless of the device you’re using. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to resolve language switching issues and get back to typing efficiently. Remember to disable multiple input sources, use the Keyboard Viewer, and reset the NVRAM and SMC if needed. With these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to avoiding language frustrations and enjoying a seamless typing experience.
Why did my Apple keyboard switch to a foreign language?
Your Apple keyboard may have switched to a foreign language due to accidental keyboard shortcuts or language settings changes. This can happen if you press a keyboard shortcut that changes the language, or if you unintentionally change the language settings in your device’s settings app. Additionally, if you’ve been using your device in a different country or region, it’s possible that the language settings were changed automatically.
Don’t worry, it’s easy to switch back to your preferred language. You can follow the steps outlined in the article to change your Apple keyboard back to English or any other language you prefer. Make sure to check your device’s settings app and keyboard shortcuts to ensure that you’re using the correct language.
How do I know which language my keyboard is currently set to?
To check which language your keyboard is currently set to, you can look at the language indicator on your keyboard or in the menu bar of your device. On a Mac, click the flag icon in the top right corner of the screen to see the current language. On an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Keyboards, and look for the “Current Language” or “Input Language” setting.
If you’re still unsure, try typing a few words to see if the characters and accents match the language you think your keyboard is set to. If you’re still having trouble, don’t worry – you can easily switch back to your preferred language using the steps outlined in the article.
Will changing my keyboard language affect my device’s overall language settings?
Changing your keyboard language will not affect your device’s overall language settings. Your device’s language settings are controlled separately from your keyboard language settings. However, if you change your device’s language settings, it may also change your keyboard language.
To avoid confusion, make sure to check both your device’s language settings and your keyboard language settings to ensure they’re set to your preferred language. You can do this by going to the Settings app on your device and looking for the language settings.
Can I use multiple languages on my Apple device?
Yes, you can use multiple languages on your Apple device. You can add multiple keyboards to your device, which allows you to switch between languages easily. To add a new keyboard, go to the Settings app, then tap or click on “General” or “Keyboard,” depending on your device, and select “Keyboards” or “Add New Keyboard.”
You can then choose from a list of available languages and keyboard layouts. Once you’ve added a new keyboard, you can switch between languages by clicking or tapping the globe icon on your keyboard or in the menu bar of your device.
What if I’m using a non-Apple device?
The steps outlined in the article are specific to Apple devices, such as Macs, iPhones, and iPads. If you’re using a non-Apple device, the steps to change your keyboard language may be different. You may need to check your device’s settings app or consult the manufacturer’s instructions to change your keyboard language.
However, the general principles of checking your keyboard language settings and using keyboard shortcuts to switch languages may still apply. You can try checking your device’s settings app or online documentation for specific instructions on changing your keyboard language.
What if I’m using a third-party keyboard app?
If you’re using a third-party keyboard app, the steps to change your keyboard language may be different. You may need to check the app’s settings or consult the app’s instructions to change your keyboard language.
Third-party keyboard apps may have their own language settings that are separate from your device’s language settings. Make sure to check the app’s settings to ensure that the language is set correctly.
Can I reset my keyboard language to its default settings?
Yes, you can reset your keyboard language to its default settings. On a Mac, go to the Apple menu and select “System Preferences,” then click on “Keyboard,” and select the “Keyboard” tab. Click the “Reset” button at the bottom of the window to reset your keyboard settings to their default values.
On an iPhone or iPad, go to the Settings app, then tap on “General,” then tap on “Reset,” and select “Reset Keyboard Dictionary.” This will reset your keyboard language and dictionary to their default settings. Note that this will also delete any custom words or phrases you’ve added to your keyboard dictionary.