How to Make the Keyboard Bigger on iPhone 2022

For many users, the native size of the iPhone keyboard may not be ideal. Maybe you have one of the iPhone models with a smaller screen size such as the mini, or simply just large hands and find yourself always pressing the wrong key.

Unfortunately, the iPhone does not have a setting to increase the key size or keyboard directly.

Whatever your reason for wanting a larger keyboard, We have put together a list of multiple ways to increase the keyboard size or alternative solutions that you may find helpful.

Method 1: Use the Display Zoom feature to increase keyboard size

I have put this first on the list because I believe it’s the closest option to increasing the size of the keyboard natively within iOS. 

Using display Zoom does come with a drawback, yes it will increase the size of the keyboard. However, it will also dynamically increase the size of other elements on the screen.

This may not be a side effect that matters to you, in that case perfect! Let’s give it a try and see if you like it.

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Select Display & Brightness.

3. Scroll to the bottom and select Display Zoom.

4. Choose the Larger Text option.

5. Press Done in the top right corner.

6. Press Use Zoomed.

Your screen should now go black briefly. The changes will now be applied, head over to your messages and try out your bigger keyboard.

Method 2: Landscape Mode has a larger keyboard

This might seem obvious, but using your phone in landscape mode does make the iPhone keyboard bigger. This is the method I usually default to if I feel like I need a bigger keyboard or more room to type.

The downside to this method could be that you have to use both hands to type, this could be a deal breaker for you or maybe it doesn’t bother you at all.

You also do not have as much vertical screen real estate. You will not be able to see as much conversation in iMessage or a social media app as much as you usually would.

To use your iPhone vertically you might need to disable Orientation Lock if you find turning your device sideways does not automatically adjust the screen for you.

You can turn Orientation Lock off by swiping down from the top-right of your screen to access the Control Center.

Click the Orientation Lock button and ensure the padlock looks open for it to be disabled.

Method 3: Third-party keyboards designed with bigger keys

A third-party keyboard may be the route to go due to the limitations of the default keyboard that comes with iOS.

There are plenty of options on the app store for you to choose from. Some may be free while others cost. 

One option that has a large keyboard is the Big Keys Keyboard. 

Method 4: Slide to Type can help improve your speed and accuracy

Not everybody knows about the Slide to Type feature even though it has been around for a long time, on android phones as well.

Slide to Type works by sliding your finger from letter to letter instead of pressing the individual key. It takes a little getting used to but once you’ve had some practice you might find it significantly increases your typing speed.

If it appears to be disabled for you, here’s how to enable Slide to Type.

1. Open the Settings app.

2. Select General.

3. Select Keyboard.

4. Turn on the Slide to Type switch so it appears green.

Method 5: External Keyboard for comfort

If the keyboard size is troubling you because you are writing longer content on your phone, such as a blog post or an essay.

An external keyboard with Bluetooth enabled could be a viable option for you. You can connect a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse to your iPhone. This would be the most comfortable approach for longer typing sessions.

A summary on how to make your keyboard larger

If you are looking to increase the size of your keyboard so you make fewer mistakes when typing messages to friends and family. Turning on Larger Text in Display Zoom or using your phone in landscape mode would be a quick ideal solutions that should solve the issue for you.

However, if it’s not quite what you are looking for try looking for a third-party keyboard that would suit your needs better. With this option though you might need to be prepared to spend a little money on a paid keyboard application if there is not a free alternative that suits you.

If you want to try something a little different to see if it works for you, try the Slide to Type feature. I found when I use Slide to Type, it feels like I can write faster. Sometimes it can give you an incorrect word but I found it to be accurate the majority of the time.

For those of you writing longer content, investing in an external keyboard and mouse is a no-brainer. It’s much more comfortable to be using a full-size keyboard and mouse to get the job done.

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Author
Nathan Plume

Nathan is the founder of Tech Guy Guide and a seasoned IT Support Analyst with a passion for technology. With a background in IT and multimedia, he has made it his mission to simplify tech troubleshooting for users of all experience levels.