How can I get rid of this annoying video controller type popup on every single app on MacBook Air?

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Level 1

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How can I get rid of this annoying video controller type popup on every single app on MacBook Air?

What is this annoying popup controller that constantly appears on my MacBook Air? As you can see, it doesn't matter what I'm using, one will pop up. I can be working in a MS Word, Excel, or PowerPoint file, and it will suddenly pop up. I can be watching a video in full screen mode, or browsing the web, on Safari and it will suddenly pop up. I can be reading Mail and suddenly there it is.

I really don't need this thing and it's a constant annoyance. How can I make it go away?

[Edited by Moderator]

Posted on Aug 10, 2026 6:53 AM

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Answer 1

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Owl-53

Level 10

111,989 points

Aug 10, 2026 7:17 AM in response to RMescal

The popup in your screenshot is the macOS Read & Speak controller.

1 - It is a macOS accessibility feature, not a Microsoft Office or Safari feature.

2 - To stop it appearing, go to  >> System Settings >> Accessibility >> Read & Speak >> Speak Selection and adjust the Show Controller setting.

3 - If you do not use Speak Selection, you can also turn that feature off.

4 - In macOS uses Option–Esc as the default keyboard shortcut for Speak Selection, so that shortcut is also listed in the Speak Selection settings.

Apple: Read & Speak settings on Mac

Apple: Accessibility features for Mac

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