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Why doesn't the ⌃Space shortcut open the Apps grid?

Short answer: Another shortcut probably already uses it — ⌃Space is also macOS's switch-input-source shortcut. Pick a different combination in Settings → Shortcuts, or turn off the clashing one in System Settings → Keyboard.

Most likely macOS or another app already uses that combination — ⌃Space is also macOS's shortcut for switching to the previous input source (keyboard language), and that one wins.

To fix it:

  1. Open Settings → Shortcuts.
  2. Under Apps, check Open the Apps grid is on, and pick a different combination.
  3. Try it again from any app.

Alternatively, turn off the conflicting shortcut in System Settings → Keyboard → Keyboard Shortcuts → Input Sources.

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