In this article, we will show you how to turn OFF touchscreen on Chromebook using both developer mode and Chrome extensions for improved productivity and fewer accidental taps.

If you’re looking to disable your Chromebook’s touchscreen, you’ve come to the right place.

Whether you find accidental touches distracting or you simply prefer using a keyboard and trackpad, turning off the touchscreen can make your Chromebook experience more efficient.

In this article, we will walk you through the process. Let’s dive in!

See Also: 4 Ways to Copy and Paste on Chromebook

Why Disable the Touchscreen?

Chromebooks are popular for their versatility and convenience. However, some users may not need the touchscreen functionality. Disabling the touchscreen can help you:

• Prevent accidental touches: If your screen responds to unwanted taps or swipes, turning off the touchscreen can help.

• Improve performance: In rare cases, disabling unused features may contribute to smoother operation.

• Focus on productivity: A non-touch interface can reduce distractions when you’re focused on typing and navigating with your keyboard.

How to Turn Off Touchscreen on Chromebook

There are a couple of methods you can use to disable the touchscreen feature on your Chromebook. Let’s explore them one by one.

Method 1: Using Developer Mode

Step 1: Enter Developer Mode:
To use this method, you may need to enable Developer Mode. Keep in mind that enabling Developer Mode might affect your device’s security settings and may require a powerwash (factory reset) in some cases. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully.

Step 2: Access Terminal:
Once in Developer Mode, press Ctrl + Alt + T to open the crosh terminal. You should see a command line interface appear.

Step 3: Enter Shell Mode:
Type shell and press Enter to access the full shell of your Chromebook.

Step 4: Disable the Touchscreen Driver:
You can temporarily disable the touchscreen by unloading its driver. Enter the following command:

This command tells your Chromebook to remove the touchscreen driver from the running kernel.

Step 5: Confirm the Change:
After executing the command, test your device to ensure the touchscreen is disabled. If it works as expected, you’re all set!

Note: This method is generally temporary. If you restart your Chromebook, the touchscreen driver might reload automatically. You may need to repeat these steps each time you restart your device or create a script to automate the process.

Method 2: Using Chrome Extensions and Settings

For users who prefer not to venture into Developer Mode, there are third-party applications and Chrome extensions designed to manage hardware settings. Although this approach may not directly “turn off” the touchscreen, it can help limit its functionality by blocking touch events.

Step 1: Search for a Reliable Extension:
Head to the Chrome Web Store and search for extensions that allow you to manage or block touch inputs. Look for trusted extensions with good reviews and ratings.

Step 2: Install and Configure:
Once installed, follow the on-screen instructions to configure the extension to block touch interactions. This might include toggling a switch or setting up a keyboard shortcut to activate/deactivate touch controls.

Step 3: Test Your Settings:
After configuration, give your Chromebook a test run to ensure the extension effectively minimizes unwanted touchscreen activity.

Tips for a Better Experience

• Backup Your Data:
  Before making significant changes like enabling Developer Mode, always back up your important files. A factory reset might be required, so it’s best to be prepared.

• Re-enable Touchscreen if Needed:
  If you decide that you miss the touchscreen functionality, simply restart your device or remove the blocking extension to restore the original settings.

• Stay Updated:
  Chromebook settings and available extensions may change with updates. Always check the latest guides or community forums for updated instructions on managing hardware features.

Final Thoughts

Disabling your Chromebook’s touchscreen can enhance your productivity by reducing accidental inputs and keeping you focused on your tasks. Whether you choose the more technical Developer Mode method or a user-friendly Chrome extension approach, you now have the tools to customize your device according to your needs.

Remember, every Chromebook may have slight differences in settings or available options. Always consult your device’s support documentation if you run into any issues. Enjoy your optimized Chromebook experience and happy computing!

This guide is designed to be comprehensive yet easy to follow, ensuring you can disable the touchscreen on your Chromebook with confidence.

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