How to use swipe typing on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for swipe typing on iPhone.

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

Quick Answer

Swipe typing on iPhone allows users to input text quickly by sliding their finger across the keyboard instead of tapping each key. This feature, known as QuickPath, is available on iPhones running iOS 13 and later, making it a convenient option for fast text entry.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start using swipe typing on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •iPhone running iOS 13 or later.
  • •Access to the Settings app on your iPhone.
  • •Basic familiarity with using the iPhone keyboard.

Method 1: Enabling Swipe Typing (QuickPath)

This method is used to enable swipe typing on your iPhone. It is essential to ensure that this feature is turned on before you can use it.
  • •Step 1: Open the 'Settings' app on your iPhone. (Icon: Gear icon)
  • •Step 2: Scroll down and tap on 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Keyboard'.
  • •Step 4: Ensure that 'Slide to Type' is toggled ON (green). If it is OFF (gray), tap the switch to enable it.
  • •Step 5: Exit the Settings app and open any app that allows text input (e.g., Messages).
  • •Step 6: Start swipe typing by placing your finger on the first letter of the word and sliding it to the next letters without lifting your finger.
  • •Step 7: Verify that the word appears correctly in the text field. If it does not, try again or check the keyboard settings.
  • •Step 8: If swipe typing still does not work, restart your iPhone and try again.

For iOS 14 and Later

In iOS 14 and later, the swipe typing feature includes improved word prediction and autocorrect capabilities.
  • •Ensure that 'Predictive' is also enabled in the Keyboard settings for better suggestions.
  • •You can also swipe over the space bar to quickly insert a space between words.

Method 2: Using Third-Party Keyboards

If you prefer additional features or different swipe typing experiences, consider using third-party keyboards like Gboard or SwiftKey.
  • •Step 1: Download your preferred keyboard app from the App Store (e.g., Gboard).
  • •Step 2: Open the 'Settings' app and navigate to 'General'.
  • •Step 3: Tap on 'Keyboard' and then 'Keyboards'.
  • •Step 4: Tap 'Add New Keyboard...' and select the downloaded keyboard from the list.
  • •Step 5: Allow full access if prompted to enable all features.
  • •Step 6: Open any app that allows text input and switch to the new keyboard by tapping the globe icon on the keyboard.
  • •Step 7: Use the swipe typing feature as per the instructions provided by the third-party keyboard.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while using swipe typing, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Swipe typing not working' - Solution: Ensure 'Slide to Type' is enabled in Settings > General > Keyboard.
  • •Issue: 'Words not recognized' - Fix: Try clearing the keyboard dictionary by going to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Keyboard Dictionary.
  • •Problem: 'Keyboard lag' - Workaround: Restart your iPhone or close background apps to free up memory.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your swipe typing experience with these advanced tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Double-tap the space bar to insert a period and space.
  • •Hidden feature: Swipe down on the keyboard to minimize it for easier one-handed typing.
  • •Tip: Use the 'Dictation' feature by tapping the microphone icon on the keyboard for hands-free text input.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To maximize efficiency, practice swipe typing regularly and familiarize yourself with common words and phrases.