Enabling the double tap period shortcut on your iPhone running iOS 17 is a breeze. Simply go to Settings, tap General, select Keyboard, and toggle on the “.” shortcut. Now, whenever you double-tap the space bar, a period will automatically be inserted followed by a space.
After completing this action, your typing experience on the iPhone will become faster and more efficient. This shortcut is particularly useful when you’re writing long messages or documents, as it saves time and effort.
You can also watch this video about how to enable the double tap period shortcut on iPhone for more on this subject.
Introduction
Think about the last time you typed out a message on your iPhone. Did you find yourself tapping the “123” key to switch to the numerical keyboard, hitting the period, and then switching back to the alphabetical keyboard? Pretty tedious, right? Well, what if I told you there’s a nifty little shortcut in iOS 17 that can make your life a whole lot easier?
The double tap period shortcut is a feature that has been around for a while, but it’s surprising how many people don’t know about it or don’t have it enabled. This simple feature can significantly speed up your typing, particularly if you’re someone who sends a lot of texts or emails. Imagine not having to switch keyboards just to insert a period. That’s the convenience this shortcut offers. It’s not just about speed either; it’s about flow. Not having to interrupt your typing rhythm to insert a period can make typing feel more natural and less frustrating. So, who is this feature for? Pretty much anyone who types on their iPhone. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just someone who enjoys chatting with friends, this shortcut can make your digital communication smoother and faster.
Step by Step Tutorial: Enabling the Double Tap Period Shortcut
Before beginning, ensure your iPhone is updated to iOS 17 to follow these steps.
Step 1: Open Settings
Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
This step is straightforward. You’ll find the Settings app on your home screen or in your app library. It’s the one with the gear icon.
Step 2: Tap on General
Scroll down and tap on the General option in Settings.
This will take you to the general settings of your iPhone where you can adjust various functionalities of your device.
Step 3: Select Keyboard
In the General settings page, select Keyboard.
This will open the keyboard settings where you can customize many features related to typing.
Step 4: Toggle on the ‘.’ Shortcut
Find the “.” shortcut toggle and turn it on.
Now, whenever you double-tap the spacebar, a period will be automatically added followed by a space.
Pros
| Benefit | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Increased Typing Speed | By enabling this shortcut, you will no longer need to switch keyboards to insert a period. This can significantly increase your typing speed and efficiency. |
| Enhanced Typing Flow | Maintaining a consistent typing rhythm without having to switch keyboards can make typing feel more natural and less disruptive. |
| Convenience | This shortcut is especially useful for those who do a lot of typing on their iPhone, whether it’s for work or personal communication. |
Cons
| Drawback | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Accidental Periods | It’s possible to accidentally insert periods if you’re not used to the shortcut or if you tend to double-tap the space bar inadvertently. |
| Limited to Certain Apps | Not all apps support this shortcut, so there may be inconsistency in your typing experience across different apps. |
| Takes Time to Adjust | If you’re used to manually inserting periods, it might take some time to adjust to this new shortcut and remember to use it. |
Additional Information
When it comes to typing on the iPhone, every second counts. The double tap period shortcut on iOS 17 is just one of many features designed to make our typing faster and more efficient. But remember, it’s not just about speed. It’s about making the typing experience as smooth and seamless as possible.
One thing to keep in mind is that this shortcut works best when you’re typing in full sentences. So, if you’re someone who tends to send quick, short messages, you might not see as much of a benefit. However, for longer messages, emails, or even typing up documents on your iPhone, this shortcut can be a game-changer.
Another tip is to combine this shortcut with other typing features like text replacement and predictive text to maximize your typing efficiency. And don’t forget about the importance of auto-correct and spell check to avoid embarrassing typos.
Lastly, remember to periodically check for updates in the Settings app under General -> Software Update. Apple often releases new versions of iOS with enhanced features and sometimes even new shortcuts.
Summary
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Select General.
- Tap on Keyboard.
- Toggle on the “.” shortcut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this shortcut work on all iPhone models?
Yes, as long as your iPhone is running iOS 17, this shortcut will work.
Will this shortcut work in all apps?
Most apps support this shortcut, but there may be some exceptions.
Can I turn off this shortcut if I don’t like it?
Absolutely! Just go back to the Keyboard settings and toggle off the “.” shortcut.
Will the shortcut work with external keyboards?
This shortcut is designed for the on-screen iPhone keyboard and may not work with external keyboards.
Can this shortcut be customized?
No, the double tap period shortcut is a preset feature and cannot be customized.
Conclusion
The double tap period shortcut is one of those small, yet impactful features in iOS 17 that can enhance your typing experience on the iPhone. Whether you’re a fast typer or someone who takes their time crafting messages, this shortcut has the potential to save you time and frustration.
Give it a try – you might just wonder how you ever lived without it. And remember, the world of iOS is always evolving, so keep an eye out for future updates and new shortcuts that could make your digital life even easier.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.