While using Termux, keys like Control, Alt, and the Up/Down arrows are essential for navigating the terminal and using Basic Termux Commands efficiently. By default, standard Android keyboards do not include these buttons.
To access extra keys, many users suggest downloading Hacker's Keyboard from the Play Store. However, this takes up storage space and can be difficult to use due to small buttons. Instead, you can enable these keys directly through the official Termux configuration. If you haven't set up the app yet, check out our guide on how to Install Termux on Android.
How to Enable Basic and Arrow Keys in Termux
Use the command below to enable Arrow and Basic Keys. Simply copy and paste this into your terminal, and the keys will appear on your keyboard row:
mkdir $HOME/.termux/ ;echo "extra-keys = [['ESC','/','-','HOME','UP','END'],['TAB','CTRL','ALT','LEFT','DOWN','RIGHT']]" >> $HOME/.termux/termux.properties && termux-reload-settings && sleep 1 && logout
How to Enable Function Keys in Termux
If you need function keys (F1-F12) for specific programs, this command adds an extra row to your touch keyboard:
mkdir $HOME/.termux/ ;echo "extra-keys = [['F1','F2','F3','F4','F5','F6','F12'],['ESC','TAB','CTRL','ALT','-','DOWN','UP']]" >> $HOME/.termux/termux.properties && termux-reload-settings && sleep 1 && logoutYou can customize the command by changing 'F1' to 'F7' or any other function key you require.
How to Enable All Keys in Termux
To enable the full set of navigation and function keys simultaneously, use this complete command:
mkdir $HOME/.termux/ ;echo "extra-keys = [['F1','F2','F3','F4','F5','F6','F7'],['ESC','/','-','HOME','UP','END','PGUP'],['TAB','CTRL','ALT','LEFT','DOWN','RIGHT','PGDN']]" >> $HOME/.termux/termux.properties && termux-reload-settings && sleep 1 && logout
Enabling extra keys makes your mobile terminal experience much smoother, allowing for better navigation without needing external hardware.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are extra keys in Termux?
Extra keys are an additional row of buttons on the Termux touch keyboard that provide access to essential terminal keys like Ctrl, Alt, ESC, and arrow keys.
Do I need to install Hacker's Keyboard?
No, you do not need to download third-party apps like Hacker's Keyboard. You can enable extra keys natively by modifying the termux.properties file.
How do I enable arrow keys in Termux?
You can enable arrow keys by running a command that adds the 'UP', 'DOWN', 'LEFT', and 'RIGHT' keys to your termux.properties configuration.
How do I refresh Termux settings after making changes?
After editing the properties file, use the command 'termux-reload-settings' to see the changes immediately without restarting the device.