How to increase text size on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for increasing text size on iPhone.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To increase text size on an iPhone, you can adjust the settings in the Display & Brightness menu or use the Accessibility settings. These methods allow you to customize the text size for better readability across apps and the system interface.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start adjusting the text size on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements.
  • •An iPhone running iOS 13 or later (iOS 14, 15, 16, or 17 recommended for best features).
  • •Access to the device settings.
  • •No restrictions enabled that could prevent changes to accessibility settings.
  • •Backup important data in case of any unexpected issues.

Method 1: Adjust Text Size in Display Settings

This method is the simplest way to increase text size and is suitable for general use across most apps.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone. You can find it on your home screen or by swiping down and using the search bar.
  • •Step 2: Tap on 'Display & Brightness'. This will open the display settings.
  • •Step 3: Scroll down and find the 'Text Size' option. Tap on it.
  • •Step 4: Use the slider to adjust the text size to your preference. You will see the text size change in real-time as you move the slider.
  • •Step 5: Tap 'Back' to save your changes and exit the settings. Verify the text size change by checking any app that displays text.
  • •Step 6: If the text size does not change, restart your iPhone to apply the settings.

For iOS 16 and 17

iOS 16 and 17 have introduced additional features for text size adjustments.
  • •In 'Text Size', you can also enable 'Larger Accessibility Sizes' for even larger text options.
  • •After enabling this, return to the 'Display & Brightness' settings to adjust the text size slider again.

For iOS 14 and 15

The steps remain largely the same, but the interface may differ slightly.
  • •Ensure you have the latest updates installed for optimal performance and features.
  • •You may also find the 'Bold Text' option in the same menu, which can enhance readability.

Method 2: Use Accessibility Settings

This method is ideal for users who require larger text across all applications, including system text and third-party apps.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app.
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'Accessibility'.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Display & Text Size'.
  • •Step 4: Tap on 'Larger Text'.
  • •Step 5: Enable 'Larger Accessibility Sizes' by toggling the switch on.
  • •Step 6: Use the slider to adjust the text size to your preference. You will see the changes in real-time.
  • •Step 7: Exit the settings and check various apps to confirm the text size has increased.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to increase text size, consider the following solutions.
  • •Error: 'Text size not changing' - Solution: Restart your iPhone to apply the changes.
  • •Issue: 'Text size only changes in some apps' - Fix: Ensure that the apps you are using support dynamic type settings.
  • •Problem: 'Accessibility settings not saving' - Workaround: Check for any restrictions in 'Screen Time' settings that may prevent changes.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some additional tips to enhance your experience.
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use 'Settings' > 'Accessibility' > 'VoiceOver' to read text aloud, which can help in understanding text size changes.
  • •Command line: Not applicable for iOS, but consider using Siri to adjust settings hands-free.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Display Zoom' can also be enabled in 'Display & Brightness' for a zoomed-in view of the entire interface.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

For the best results, combine text size adjustments with other accessibility features like 'Bold Text' and 'Increase Contrast'.