Sticky keys is an accessibility feature of some graphical user interfaces which assists users who have physical disabilities or helps users reduce repetitive strain injury. It serializes keystrokes; instead of being required to press multiple keys at a time, the user can press and release a modifier key, such as Shift, Ctrl, Alt, or the Windows key, and have it remain active until any other key is pressed. Sticky keys functionality is available on/in Microsoft Windows, macOS, chromeOS and KDE Plasma as Sticky Keys, and on Unix/X11 systems as part of the AccessX utility.

History

Sticky Keys was first introduced to System 6 as part of the Easy Access extension, which also included mouse keys functionality. In 1994, Solaris 2.4 shipped with the AccessX utility, which also provided sticky keys and mouse keys functionality.