Apple Aluminum keyboards (#3): Function keys do not work

We've received a number of reports indicating problems with certain function keys on the new Apple aluminum keyboards. The situation is thus: The F3 and F4 keys, which should trigger Dashboard and Expose, do not normally trigger these functions unless the function (fn) key is held down while they are pressed. If you navigate to the keyboard pane of System Preferences and check the "Use all F1, F2, etc. keys as standard function keys," the Dashboard and Expose functions are triggered by the F3 and F4 keys, but the rest of the special function keys no longer work (brightness toggling, etc.).

MacFixIt reader Justin LaBo writes:

"I've called Apple support and they were unaware of the issue. They suggested I return the keyboard for a new one. At the Apple store we tested the keyboard on a new iMac and it worked as it should. Apple did exchange the keyboard, but the problem still persists. Clearly a software/driver issue. Hopefully a 1.2 release is in the works, as this is very disappointing."

Another reader writes:

"I could not get F3, F4 or F5 to do anything and if I checked the box on the System Preferences Keyboard and Mouse to use standard F-keys it defeated the above sound an brightness functions. I have no idea if the option should or should not be checked. The rep had me reboot in the safe mode and nothing worked like he said it should. There are some issues with the keyboard options in the System Preferences Dashboard and Expose panel. [...] After an hour the Apple Care person gave up and advised me to return the keyboard and mouse to the Apple Store."

Similar issues? Please let us know.

Previous coverage:

• Apple Aluminum keyboards: Problems with startup commands
• Apple's new keyboards require Keyboard Software Update 1.1, available in Software Update

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