Apple Mail conflict with InDesign shortcuts

[Francesco Stefanini]

Hello,

Today I had to configure Apple Mail on my Macbook (M2) that I didn't use before. 

The funny gift was if Apple Mail is open in InDesign some shortcuts doesn't work, like space bar (hand tool) ora duplicate object holding down Alt.

If I close Apple Mail the InDesign shortcuts start working again.

Have you ever notice that? The same thing is happening with my colleagues

Best,

Francesco

[Anshul_Saini · Accepted solution]

Hi @Francesco Stefanini,

I understand how frustrating it must be to discover that InDesign shortcuts stop working whenever Apple Mail is open. Unfortunately, this isn’t limited to just Apple Mail; it can happen with other apps as well. It’s due to how macOS handles input and prioritizes it when multiple applications are open simultaneously.

When certain apps are active, macOS might capture keyboard inputs or override system shortcuts, which can cause InDesign’s shortcuts (like the space bar for the hand tool or the Alt key for duplicating objects) to stop functioning correctly. Closing the conflicting app usually restores normal behavior in InDesign, as you’ve noticed.

While it’s inconvenient, closing the apps open while working in InDesign might help reduce these conflicts. I hope this clarifies up what’s happening!

Best,

Anshul Saini

[leo.r]

I never heard about this issue but I also never use Apple Mail.

In addition to other suggestions, is it possible that you're running some 3rd-party software that may affect keyboard shortcut management?

Also, what's your version of macOS? Are your colleagues using the same software/hardware?

[Francesco Stefanini]

Hi leo.r

Yes, actually we have the same logi keyboard