Using Text Replacement on iPhone, iPad, and Mac to Type Faster

Apple’s iOS devices are packed with a variety of hidden features that enhance user experience, one of which is the Text Replacement feature. Also known as Text Shortcuts or Text Expander, this tool allows you to type faster by creating personalized abbreviations for frequently used words and phrases. Below is a comprehensive guide on how to set up Text Replacement on your iPhone, iPad, and Mac.

Additionally, if you’re looking to get creative, learn how to craft a stunning event invitation directly from your iPhone.

Setting Up Text Replacement on iPhone

Have you found yourself repeatedly typing the same phrases while messaging friends? Creating shortcuts for these commonly used expressions can streamline your communication and save time. Follow these steps to establish your first text shortcut:

Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
Tap on General, then navigate to Keyboard.

Navigating to Keyboard in iPhone General Settings.

Next, select Text Replacement.

Accessing 'Text Replacement' option in iPhone Settings.

You may find some pre-existing shortcuts based on your language settings. To create your own, tap the + icon in the upper right corner.

Pressing '+' button to create a new text shortcut on iPhone.

In the pop-up window, input the full phrase you wish to abbreviate in the Phrase field, followed by your chosen Shortcut. Here are some great examples to inspire your shortcuts:

Creating new text shortcut on iPhone and saving the result.

omw = On my way
iirc = If I recall correctly
afaik = As far as I know
wyd = What are you doing
asap = As soon as possible

After filling in the details, simply click Save. One of the exciting aspects of Text Replacement is its versatility; you can also create shortcuts for various symbols and phrases. Here are some fun examples:

shrug = ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ (or any emoji)
@gm = your Google email address
@ic = your iCloud email address
com1 = www.maketecheasier.com
## = your phone number
cr = © (or other special characters)
Gael = Gaël (or other accented names)
Hbmail = Here’s to celebrating you—your kindness, your strength, and all the beautiful things that make you who you are. Happy birthday!
Love = Luv (or similar)

Utilizing Text Shortcuts in Messaging

When you text in apps like Messages, WhatsApp, or Facebook on your iPhone or iPad, look at the bottom for the predictive text bar. Typing in your abbreviation, such as shrug, should prompt the corresponding emoji suggestion.

Typing abbreviation in Messages app on iPhone.

To insert the suggestion into your message, simply tap it and send your text. In our experience, this feature is user-friendly and highly effective.

Deleting a Text Shortcut on iPhone

If you wish to remove any previously created shortcuts, return to the General settings, then navigate to Keyboard and select Text Replacement.

Press the Edit button located at the bottom.

Tapping Edit in 'Text Replacement' screen on iPhone.

Next, hit the “–” next to the shortcut you’d like to delete.

Tapping on '-' sign next to text shortcut on iPhone.

A Delete button will appear to the right; click it to confirm deletion.

Tapping 'Delete' button for text shortcut on iPhone.

If you change your mind about deletion, swipe right to cancel.

Setting Up Text Replacement on Mac

For macOS users, begin by clicking the Apple logo in the top left corner and selecting System Settings.

Navigating to 'System Settings' on Mac computer.

In the new window, select Keyboard, and then choose Text Replacement.

Finding 'Text Replacement' option under Keyboard in Mac Settings.

Click the + icon to add a new shortcut, then fill in the Replace and With fields. Press Add to save your shortcut.

Clicking on + button to create a new text shortcut on Mac PC.

Finally, click Done to activate your shortcut. Please keep in mind that not all macOS applications support the Text Replacement feature.

Deleting a Text Shortcut on Mac

To delete a shortcut on your Mac, revisit the Text Replacement settings, select the entry you want to remove, and then click the – button.

Clicking on - button to remove text shortcut on Mac computer.

Your shortcut is now removed from the list.

If you’re eager to explore more useful features and tips to maximize your iOS experience, consider learning how to scan documents with WhatsApp or how to record and transcribe calls on your iPhone.

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