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Is it possible to customize the Fn (aka. function key)? For example, I can press Fn + I to trigger the ↑ (uparrow key).

I'm running Ubuntu 22.04 on a dell inspiron 16 7610.

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  • Try using Actiona: wiki.actiona.tools/doku.php?id=en:start
    – Rishon_JR
    Sep 4, 2022 at 13:32
  • I have a Corsair K55 keyboard here where you can modify what the FN key does, but it would have to be changed to a modifier that the OS can see like Left_Ctrl, etc. in order for something like this to work. You also need the software from Corsair to change this as it cannot be done at the OS level without it. I don't know if Dell has a program for their keyboard, but looks like it can only be a Fn key. dell.com/support/manuals/en-us/inspiron-16-7610-laptop/…
    – Terrance
    Sep 4, 2022 at 16:33

1 Answer 1

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Disappointing answers are also answers. Here, the answer is no: the Fn key is seen only by your hardware to modify the effect of other keys, but it is not seen by the operating system, hence you cannot reconfigure it.

Run the xev utility. It shows information about input events. When you hit the Fn key, no output is produced - this key does not make it into the operating system.

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  • vanadium, there are ways to do it.
    – Rishon_JR
    Sep 4, 2022 at 13:33
  • @RishonJR it is possible if the OS is the one that changes the behavior of the keys when <kbd>Fn</kbd> is pressed. In my situation, the <kbd>Fn</kbd> key is tied only to the keyboard's firmware and the only purpose of it is changing the RGB lights of my keyboard.
    – Emre Talha
    Sep 4, 2022 at 14:13
  • @RishonJR My Fn key only works with certain key combos and none are tied into the OS itself. The OS doesn't even recognize my Fn key presses at all. If you do have an answer showing how you can make the OS see the Fn key, please write it up.
    – Terrance
    Sep 4, 2022 at 14:28
  • @RishonJR Feel free to answer. I will be glad to delete my answer if something better comes up.
    – vanadium
    Sep 4, 2022 at 15:10
  • Okay Thanks :) .
    – Rishon_JR
    Sep 4, 2022 at 15:29

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