Why doesn't Typedesk work during video calls (Zoom, Google Meet, Loom)?

If you've noticed that Typedesk doesn't paste your responses correctly while you're on a video call, you're not alone! This is a known limitation, and here's a simple explanation of why it happens.

How Typedesk pastes text

When you use a quick shortcut or click a response, Typedesk works by pasting text into whichever window is currently "active" on your screen — that's the window your computer considers to be in the foreground at that moment.

Think of it like a spotlight: your computer can only shine the spotlight on one window at a time. Typedesk sends your text to wherever that spotlight is pointing.

What happens during a video call

Apps like Zoom, Google Meet, and Loom are designed to keep themselves in the foreground while you're in a call or recording. They actively "grab" the spotlight to ensure your camera, microphone, and screen sharing work properly.

So when you try to use a Typedesk shortcut during a call, here's what can go wrong:

• The video call app takes over the focus right when Typedesk tries to paste
• Typedesk ends up pasting into the wrong window — or nowhere at all
• The text simply doesn't appear where you expected it

This isn't a bug in Typedesk — it's a result of how these video call apps manage your computer's attention.

What can I do about it?

Here are a few workarounds to help you use your responses during video calls:

1. Minimize or hide the video call popup window
   Many video call apps open a small floating window (for your camera preview, controls, or notifications) that steals focus from the app you're typing in. Try minimizing, closing, or hiding that popup before using Typedesk. For example:

   • Zoom: Minimize the meeting controls or switch to a minimal view
   • Google Meet: Close the picture-in-picture popup if it appears outside the browser
   • Loom: Minimize the Loom recording widget
     Once the popup is out of the way, click back into the text field where you want to type and then use your Typedesk shortcut.

2. Use the browser extension instead of the desktop app
   If your video call is in a browser (like Google Meet), try using the Typedesk browser extension. The extension works directly inside your browser tabs, so it isn't affected by window focus the same way.

3. Copy and paste manually
   Open the Typedesk desktop app or web app, find the response you need, and use response and it appears in the clipboard. Then switch to the chat window and press Ctrl+V (or Cmd+V on Mac) to paste it yourself.

Which apps are affected?

This issue can happen with most video and screen recording apps, including:

• Zoom
• Google Meet
• Microsoft Teams
• Loom
• Any screen recording or sharing software

Still need help?

If you're experiencing issues outside of video calls, your problem might be something else entirely. Check out our Shortcuts not working guide for more troubleshooting steps.