If you’ve ever wanted to make your texting life easier by creating shortcuts for commonly used phrases on your iPhone, you’re in luck! Making text message shortcuts in iOS 10 is a simple process that can save you tons of time. In just a few steps, you’ll have your favorite sayings and phrases ready to go at the tap of a few keys.
How to Make Text Message Shortcuts in iOS 10
We’re going to walk you through the steps to create text message shortcuts, so you can type less but say more. By the end, you’ll be able to type a few characters, and your iPhone will automatically replace them with full phrases or sentences.
Step 1: Open the Settings App
First, open the Settings app on your iPhone.
The Settings app is where you can make all sorts of changes to your device. It’s represented by a gray icon with gears on it.
Step 2: Tap on "General"
Next, tap on "General" within the Settings menu.
The General section is like the control center for all the standard settings on your iPhone. It houses everything from software updates to keyboard settings.
Step 3: Select "Keyboard"
Scroll down a bit and select "Keyboard."
This section contains all the settings related to your iPhone’s keyboard, including the shortcuts we’re about to create.
Step 4: Tap on "Text Replacement"
In the Keyboard settings, tap on "Text Replacement."
Text Replacement is where the magic happens. It’s the feature that lets you set up shortcuts for longer phrases.
Step 5: Tap on the "+" Icon
At the top-right corner, tap on the "+" icon.
This will take you to a new screen where you can add a shortcut.
Step 6: Enter Your Phrase and Shortcut
In the Phrase field, enter the full phrase you want to type quickly. In the Shortcut field, enter the characters you want to use as the shortcut.
For example, you could enter “On my way!” in the Phrase field and “omw” in the Shortcut field. Now, every time you type "omw," your iPhone will replace it with "On my way!"
Step 7: Tap "Save"
Tap "Save" in the top-right corner to finish.
Your new shortcut is now ready to use. You can always edit or delete it later if needed.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your iPhone will automatically replace your chosen shortcuts with the corresponding full phrases whenever you type them. It’s a small change that can make a big difference in your texting efficiency.
Tips for Making Text Message Shortcuts in iOS 10
- Use Common Phrases: Create shortcuts for phrases you use frequently to save the most time.
- Keep It Short: Make your shortcuts short and easy to remember.
- Avoid Common Words: Don’t use shortcuts that are common words, or else you might trigger them unintentionally.
- Be Creative: Use abbreviations or initials that make sense to you.
- Test Your Shortcuts: Try out your new shortcuts in a text message to make sure they work as expected.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many shortcuts can I create?
You can create as many shortcuts as you need. There’s no hard limit, so go wild!
Can I edit or delete a shortcut later?
Yes, you can go back to the Text Replacement menu to edit or delete any shortcuts you’ve set up.
What happens if I use a common word as a shortcut?
If you use a common word, your iPhone will replace it with your phrase every time you type it, which can get annoying. Stick to unique shortcuts.
Will my shortcuts work in all apps?
Yes, text replacements will work in any app that uses the standard iOS keyboard.
Can I back up my shortcuts?
Shortcuts are backed up with your iPhone settings. If you restore from a backup, your shortcuts will also be restored.
Summary
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on "General."
- Select "Keyboard."
- Tap on "Text Replacement."
- Tap on the "+" icon.
- Enter your phrase and shortcut.
- Tap "Save."
Conclusion
Making text message shortcuts in iOS 10 is a fantastic way to speed up your texting game. With just a few taps in the Settings app, you can create shortcuts for any phrase you use regularly. Whether it’s a quick "I’m on my way!" or a more detailed message, these shortcuts can save you a ton of time and effort. Plus, they’re super easy to set up and customize.
So, don’t wait! Go ahead and give it a try. Experiment with different shortcuts and see how much quicker your texting becomes. For more tips and tricks on making the most of your iPhone, be sure to check out other articles and guides. Happy texting!