I'm a "keyboard-oriented" user. I normally switches between applications via Command+Tab combo. I noticed the following issue when working with a Linux guest (steps to reproduce):
-
Run a Linux VM in Single Window mode.
-
Switch focus to another Mac application window such as Chrome browser.
-
Switch focus back to the VM via Command+Tab.
At the point, it looks like the VM has been focused, but it seems actually only the VM window is focused, but not the running VM itself. I'm saying this because at this point:
-
Command+H combo still hides the VM window. It's not sent inside the VM itself. Note I have unchecked the shortcut in "Keyboard & Mouse > some_profile > Edit Profile > Keyboard & Mouse > Fusion Shortcuts > Hide Application".
-
Command+M combo still minimizes the VM window, having unchecked the relevant shortcut as above.
-
Typing "Space" key is not sent in the VM.
-
Not until typing some "normal" keys, such like alphanumeric keys, does the focus actually move inside the VM itself.
This focusing issue does not happen when the VM window body is focused by mouse pointer. Actually it does happen if the window is focused by explicitly clicking VM window title bar, but not the window body.
Is this a bug or what config change is needed (e.g., keyboard settings)? Essentially, what I want is Command+Tab able to switch right inside the VM, but not at the VM window.
Best Answer
While I work from a Windows host to a Linux VM, I found the same issue.
The solution that VMWare offers is the key Ctrl + G. On a Mac I'm assuming that would be Option + G.
Once my VMWare window has focus, pressing Ctrl + G will allow me to start using keyboard commands in the VM.
Your procedure would become pressing Command + Tab, then Option + G
Source: https://www.howtogeek.com/howto/vmware/keyboard-shortcuts-for-vmware-workstation/
Hope it helps!