Possible workaround for the new media key behavior in High Sierra

[SaSaSushi]

One thing I absolutely hate about High Sierra is the new media key behavior that seems to assign play, previous and next track to the app or video in focus. I just want it to control iTunes globally the way it used to in Sierra and earlier. Unfortunately, it does not appear as if Apple has left users any option to revert this.

***Failed workaround removed***

Well, that didn't last long.

Unfortunately this fix does not work. The media keys are still being assigned to videos even when they are set to regular function keys.

Apple needs to FIX THIS!

If anyone has any ideas that work, I'd be grateful.

 

[SaSaSushi]

This problem is not going to be fixed by any apps assigning global functions to the media keys. The problem is that the OS changes the media to be controlled by said media keys according to whatever is in focus.

Annoyingly, even opening iTunes and pausing and playing does not change the focus back to that app for whatever reason but I have found that hitting pause and then play in the Notification Center iTunes widget does return focus/media key functionality to iTunes reliably every time.

Until Apple offers an update making this behavior user-configurable I fear it is the closest there will be to a workaround.

 

[danmessing]

This was driving me nuts, so I wrote a little menu bar app to make the media keys only affect iTunes:

http://stuntsoftware.com/reflex/

I hope it's helpful to you!

 

[SaSaSushi]

I had found (and had been using) this app but switched to yours as it is a bit more elegant.

Thank you VERY much!

 

[BlazednSleepy]

This was driving me nuts, so I wrote a little menu bar app to make the media keys only affect iTunes:

http://stuntsoftware.com/reflex/

I hope it's helpful to you!

Thanks!

 

[fisherking]

i just downloaded the update, but... how do i get to it's options/preferences? can't find access (or info online about it...)

 

[danmessing]

i just downloaded the update, but... how do i get to it's options/preferences? can't find access (or info online about it...)

The (very few) options can be set using the menu accessed by clicking on the menu bar icon.

 

[fisherking]

The (very few) options can be set using the menu accessed by clicking on the menu bar icon.

d'oh! had the menu icon hidden by bartender. apologies...!

 

[ambientdaw]

What is the current verdict? Mine are messed up in HS. How is Mojave?