ime-mode property CSS Reference



Definition and Usage

The ime-mode CSS property controls the state of the input method editor for text fields.

  • Initial auto
  • Applies to text fields
  • Inherited no
  • Media interactive
  • Computed Value as specified
  • Animatable no
  • Canonical order the unique non-ambiguous order defined by the formal grammar

Syntax

Formal syntax: auto | normal | active | inactive | disabled
ime-mode: auto
ime-mode: normal
ime-mode: active
ime-mode: inactive
ime-mode: disabled
ime-mode: inherit

Values

auto
No change is made to the current input method editor state. This is the default.
normal
The IME state should be normal; this value can be used in a user style sheet to override the page setting. This value is not supported by Internet Explorer.
active
The input method editor is initially active; text entry is performed using it unless the user specifically dismisses it. Not supported on Linux.
inactive
The input method editor is initially inactive, but the user may activate it if they wish. Not supported on Linux.
disabled
The input method editor is disabled and may not be activated by the user.

Examples

<input type="text" name="name" value="initial value" style="ime-mode: disabled">

This example disables input method support for a field; this might be necessary for fields that enter data into a database that doesn't support extended character sets, for example.

Notes

Unlike in Internet Explorer, the Firefox implementation of ime-mode allows this property to apply to password editing fields. However, this does not make for an ideal user experience, and password fields should disable the IME. Users may correct the inappropriate behavior of sites that don't follow this recommendation by placing the following CSS into their user CSS file:

input[type=password] {
    ime-mode: auto !important;
}

Compatibility

Desktop browsers

Feature Chrome Firefox (Gecko) Internet Explorer Opera Safari (WebKit)
Basic support Not supported 3.0 (1.9) 5.0 Not supported Not supported

Mobile browsers

Feature Android Firefox Mobile (Gecko) IE Phone Opera Mobile Safari Mobile
Basic support NA NA NA NA NA

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