When I press space, a search window pops up

Sometimes when I'm using my computer, suddenly the space bar will stop functioning normally. Instead of typing a space as it should, pressing the space bar causes the Windows 10 start menu search bar to pop up in the middle of the screen (see screenshot).

If I type something in this search box, it starts displaying search results (which are all apps installed on my computer). It behaves similarly to start menu search, but it's in the middle of the screen (and the start menu isn't displayed). I have never seen this search box appear at any other time.

This is happening on a brand new Microsoft Surface Book 3. It happens both with the internal keyboard and with an external keyboard attached. It happens when connected to a Surface Dock or when not connected to anything.

I have been unable to figure out what triggers it. But the only way to fix it is to reboot. It will work fine for hours or up to days, but suddenly it will start displaying the search menu when I press space.

IMPORTANT!! READ THIS: Please do not respond with generic troubleshooting advice such as creating a new profile, applying updates, repairing my Windows installation, etc. I am an IT professional with 30 years experience, including every version of Windows since 3.1. I have tried all of the generic troubleshooting methods. Please only respond if you have seen this issue before and you have a solution that you know will work for this specific issue.

Thank you!

Answer
Answer

May I ask why you gave my post a bad rating, which affects my standing here? I went to the trouble to write out every possible thing this could be, identified from the start that it likely was something you had installed and suggested you review the Apps and Features list. Sure enough you found PowerToys there and that it was responsible. Instead of thanking me and giving me a marked Answer on the thread, you give me a bad rating instead? Why? I've never even seen anything like that before in eleven years daily in forums.

 

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Retired 2023, thirteen year daily forums volunteer, Windows MVP 2010-2020

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Last updated March 31, 2025 Views 21,477 Applies to: