Android TalkBack · Settings guide
How to turn off TalkBack on Android
Sources checked · how we check
TalkBack is Android's screen reader. While it's on, a single tap only selects things and a double-tap opens them, which is why the phone suddenly seems not to respond.
01 · Before you start
Check these first
- Google notes the TalkBack shortcut setup varies by device maker, Android version and TalkBack version.
Source: Google: turn off TalkBack
02 · Change the setting
Step by step, by device
Quickest: volume keys
Hold both volume keys for a few seconds
- Press and hold both volume keys for a few seconds.
- Listen for confirmation that TalkBack is turned off.
Source: Google: turn off TalkBack
Google Assistant
"Hey Google, turn off TalkBack"
- Say "Hey Google, turn off TalkBack".
- Listen for confirmation that TalkBack is turned off.
Source: Google: turn off TalkBack
From Settings (with TalkBack gestures)
Settings → Accessibility → TalkBack → Use TalkBack → Turn off
- Unlock the phone, then swipe down from the top with two fingers and open Settings.
- Scroll with two fingers to Accessibility; tap once to focus it, then double-tap to open it.
- Tap TalkBack once and double-tap to open it. Tap the Use TalkBack switch once, double-tap it, then choose Turn off.
Source: Google: turn off TalkBack
If the setting doesn't change
If TalkBack keeps coming back, it's probably being triggered by its shortcut. Google recommends turning off the TalkBack shortcuts in Settings after you turn TalkBack off, so it isn't reactivated by accident.
Source: Google: turn off TalkBack
Frequently asked questions
Why won't my Android phone respond to taps?
TalkBack may be on. With TalkBack, one tap selects an item and a double-tap opens it. Hold both volume keys for a few seconds to turn it off.
How do I stop TalkBack turning on by itself?
Turn off the TalkBack shortcut in Settings, as Google recommends, so holding the volume keys doesn't turn it on again.