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Surface Go 3 perpetually stuck in desktop mode

Joshua 0 Reputation points
2025-08-07T02:39:31.1933333+00:00

I have a Surface Go 3 with Windows 11 installed. I have never had a keyboard attached, and only use the compatible pen to write notes for my classes and lectures. The tablet has never switched into tablet mode and has always been in desktop mode as long as I have had it, and restarting the tablet did not fix it, nor has removing the case. I already have the "optimize task bar" setting selected, and auto rotate is turned off. The setting "automatically hide task bar" is also turned off. Even still, my tablet will not switch into tablet mode no matter what I do.

Surface | Surface Go | Display and screen
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  1. Harold Milan 10,555 Reputation points Independent Advisor
    2025-08-07T14:04:45.4+00:00

    Hi Joshua,

     

     

    Thanks for reaching out. I totally get how confusing it is when your Surface Go 3 just won’t switch into tablet mode even though you’ve never used a keyboard with it. Let’s walk through a few things that might help.

     

    What’s Going On?

    Windows 11 doesn’t have a manual “Tablet Mode” switch like Windows 10 did. Instead, it’s supposed to automatically adjust based on how you’re using your device. But sometimes, especially on Surface devices, that switch doesn’t happen like it should.

     

    Try These Steps

    Update Everything

    Make sure your Surface Go 3 is fully updated:

    Go to Settings > Windows Update and check for updates.

    You can also grab the latest firmware from the Surface Support page.

     

    Run the Surface Diagnostic Toolkit

    This tool can scan your device and fix common issues:

    Download it here: Surface Diagnostic Toolkit

     

    Soft Reset

    Sometimes a quick reset helps:

    Hold the Power button for 30 seconds.

    Wait a few seconds, then turn it back on.

     

    Double-Check Taskbar Settings

    Even if you’ve already done this, it’s worth confirming:

    Go to Settings > Personalization > Taskbar > Taskbar behaviors.

    Make sure “Optimize taskbar for touch interactions…” is turned on.

     

    Try a Little Trick

    Some users found that rotating the device or plugging/unplugging the charger can trigger the touch interface. It’s a bit quirky, but it’s worked for others!

     

    Let me know if you want help walking through any of these steps. We’ll get your Surface working the way it should no stress!

     

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