Logitech Bluetooth mouse with macOS fixed by unlocking my password manager

8 pointscjbconnor4y ago3 comments

Not sure if this is totally on-topic, but I found it interesting (and don't have a blog/twitter to post on), so I'd submit it here.

I use a Logitech MX master 3 connected via bluetooth to an Intel MacBook. For those who don't know, Logitech has special software to remap certain buttons on the mouse, as well as change scrolling direction, etc. Many users (including me) have run into issues where the software stops remapping the buttons, and it won't be fixed until a reboot of the computer. Not even reseting the bluetooth module or killing bluetoothd will fix it. Note that this only happens when the mouse is connected via bluetooth, not via the USB receiver.

A few days ago I stumbled upon the strangest fix: unlocking my Bitwarden password manager, which is installed as a Safari extension. So far this is 100% reproducible, across dozens of tries. I can't see the connection, and don't have the time to spend debugging, but this info may be useful to other Logitech mouse users.

3 comments

LeoSolaris4y ago

Wow, that sounds like something rather dangerous and underhanded is going on.

mackatsol4y ago

Does the same thing happen if you unlock your login keychain in the Keychain application in Utilities?

It might just need access to the keychain to get permission, through some accessibility service, to be able to use the remapped buttons. I’d guess that there’s no link to force / ask the keychain to unlock and allow it as the Logitech software is older than the new permissions process.

getcrunk4y ago

This is very alarming. I have a razor mouse and it also occasionally stops doing the macros. Most frequently after resume/return from lock

If it happens I'll try using this cool fix! /s

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