The Apple Watch is a versatile and powerful device, and with the introduction of watchOS 7, users can now benefit from even more features. One such feature is the ability to switch between Scribble and a keyboard when sending messages from your wrist. In this article, we will guide you on how to change Scribble to a keyboard on your Apple Watch.

Step 1: Update Your Apple Watch

Before you begin, ensure that your Apple Watch is running watchOS 7, as the keyboard feature is not available in previous versions. To update your watch:

1. Open the Watch app on your iPhone.

2. Navigate to General > Software Update.

3. Follow the prompts to install any available updates.

Step 2: Install a Third-Party Keyboard App

As of now, Apple does not include a built-in keyboard for the Apple Watch, so you’ll need to install a third-party keyboard app from the App Store. Some popular options include FlickType Keyboard, Shift Keyboard, and Nano Text.

1. Search for your preferred keyboard app in the App Store on your iPhone.

2. Install the app on both your iPhone and Apple Watch by following the on-screen prompts.

Step 3: Enable the Third-Party Keyboard on Your Apple Watch

Once you’ve installed a third-party keyboard app, you’ll need to enable it in your watch’s settings.

1. Open the Settings app on your Apple Watch.

2. Scroll down and tap “General.”

3. Tap “Keyboard” and then select “Third-Party Keyboards.”

4. Choose your installed keyboard app from the list.

Step 4: Switch from Scribble to Keyboard

Now that you have enabled the third-party keyboard, it’s easy to switch between Scribble and the keyboard when sending messages.

1. Launch the Messages app on your Apple Watch.

2. Start a new message or open an existing conversation.

3. When the default Scribble input appears, firmly press* (Force Touch) the screen, then tap on your preferred keyboard app from the list.

And that’s it – you’ve successfully changed Scribble to a keyboard on your Apple Watch! Now you can enjoy the convenience of typing messages directly from your wrist, making communication even more accessible.

*Note: If you’re using an Apple Watch Series 6 or SE, there’s no Force Touch support, but app makers have found workarounds to call these options with a long press instead. This method should work in most third-party keyboard apps.