Typing on an Apple Watch may seem daunting, but it’s quite simple once you get the hang of it. The watch comes with a few different options for inputting text, including dictation, Scribble, and preset replies. So whether you’re sending a quick message or jotting down a reminder, you can do it all from your wrist.
Step By Step Tutorial: How to Type on Apple Watch
Before we dive into the steps, let’s understand what we’re aiming for. Typing on an Apple Watch is not like typing on a smartphone or computer keyboard. The screen is smaller, so Apple has provided alternative methods to input text. By following these steps, you’ll be able to send messages and enter text into your Apple Watch with ease.
Step 1: Open the Messages app on your Apple Watch
Open the Messages app by tapping on the icon from your Apple Watch home screen.
The Messages app icon looks like a white speech bubble in a green circle. Once you tap on it, it will show you your recent conversations.
Step 2: Choose a conversation or start a new message
Select the conversation you want to reply to, or start a new message by pressing firmly on the screen and tapping on ‘New Message’.
If you’re starting a new message, you’ll need to choose a contact to send the message to. You can scroll through your contacts list or use the dictation function to speak the name of the contact.
Step 3: Tap on the text field to bring up the input options
Once you’re in a conversation, tap on the text field at the bottom of the screen to bring up the various input options.
You’ll see options for dictation, emoji, and Scribble. Each of these allows you to input text in different ways.
Step 4: Use Scribble to write your message
If you choose Scribble, use your finger to write out each letter on the screen. The watch will convert your handwriting into text.
With Scribble, you don’t need to write all the letters connected like cursive handwriting. You can write each letter individually, and the watch will understand.
Step 5: Send your message
Once you’ve inputted your message, tap ‘Send’ to send it off.
The ‘Send’ button will be either blue or green, depending on whether you’re sending an iMessage or SMS.
After you finish typing your message and send it, the conversation will update to show your new message. You can then leave the Messages app or continue the conversation as needed.
Tips for Typing on Apple Watch
- If you’re in a hurry, use dictation to quickly input text.
- Scribble is great for short replies or when you’re in a situation where you can’t speak.
- You can use the Digital Crown to scroll through suggested words when using Scribble.
- Preset replies can be customized in the Watch app on your iPhone, so set those up for messages you often send.
- Remember that typing on an Apple Watch will never be as fast as on a phone, but with practice, it’ll get easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a keyboard to type on my Apple Watch?
No, the Apple Watch does not support external keyboards. You’ll need to use the built-in input options.
What’s the difference between blue and green send buttons?
A blue send button indicates you’re sending an iMessage, while a green one means it’s an SMS text.
Can I customize preset replies?
Yes, you can customize preset replies in the Watch app on your iPhone under the Messages settings.
Is there a way to type using a full keyboard on the Apple Watch?
No, the Apple Watch screen is too small to accommodate a full keyboard. You’ll need to use dictation, Scribble, or preset replies.
Can I dictate a message in a language other than English?
Yes, the Apple Watch supports dictation in multiple languages. Make sure the language you want to use is set up in the Watch app on your iPhone.
Summary
- Open the Messages app on your Apple Watch.
- Choose an existing conversation or start a new message.
- Tap on the text field to bring up input options.
- Use Scribble to write out your message.
- Send your message.
Conclusion
Typing on an Apple Watch is a unique experience that’s admittedly different from using a full-sized keyboard or even a smartphone screen. However, Apple has intelligently integrated features like dictation, Scribble, and preset replies to make it as seamless as possible. With a little bit of practice, you’ll find it’s quite easy to send a quick reply or jot down a note without ever needing to pull out your phone. As technology continues to advance, who knows what other innovative input methods we’ll see on our wrist-worn devices? For now, though, mastering how to type on an Apple Watch is a handy skill that can keep you connected on the go.