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Resolving macOS Menu Bar Compatibility Issues with Poll Everywhere for Mac

The Team from Poll Everywhere
  • Updated

In this article:

    Poll Everywhere for Mac may not work correctly if your macOS is configured to Automatically hide and show the menu bar” when that setting is configured to “Always.” This setting can interfere with the app’s ability to properly insert slides in Microsoft PowerPoint and Keynote.

    When the macOS menu bar is hidden at all times, Poll Everywhere for Mac incorrectly assumes that a presentation is actively running. This causes certain functions, most notably slide insertion, to stop working or behave inconsistently.MacOS1.png

    How to fix it

    To resolve this issue, adjust your Mac’s system settings:

    1. Open your macOS System Settings

    2. Navigate to Desktop & Dock

      Note: The exact menu name may vary depending on your macOS version (e.g., Ventura, Sonoma, Tahoe).

    3. Locate the setting for “Automatically hide and show the menu bar”

    4. Change the setting to:

      • “In Full Screen Only” — Recommended for most users

      • “Never” — Ideal if you frequently insert slides in presentations

    Avoid using “Always” — it causes Poll Everywhere to misread the app state and fail to insert slides.

    MacOS2.png

    What if my System Settings look different?

    Apple has changed the System Settings layout across recent macOS versions. If you're not seeing the exact same menus, refer to Apple's official support article: Hide or show the menu bar on Mac

    Use the “Select version” dropdown on that page to choose your macOS version and get version-specific instructions.

    For example:

    • macOS Sonoma or earlier: You’ll find the setting in System Preferences > Dock & Menu Bar

    • macOS Tahoe: Look for Desktop & Dock in the redesigned System Settings

    Why this works

    Poll Everywhere checks whether a presentation is actively running before allowing certain functions like slide insertion. When the macOS Menu Bar is hidden (as it is under the “Always” setting), the app mistakenly assumes a presentation is in progress. This blocks core features of the PowerPoint and Keynote integrations on macOS.

    If you're unable to insert slides after adjusting your settings, please contact our support team. We're happy to help.

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