Using T9 Dialing on iPhone: A Guide for iOS 18

Essential Information

• T9 is a predictive text functionality that enables you to quickly locate contacts using their name by pressing the corresponding digits on your keypad.
• To activate T9 dialing on your iPhone, launch the Keypad within the Phone app and input the numbers that match the letters in the contact’s name.
• When a close match appears, click on the contact name displayed at the top to initiate the call.

T9, which stands for Text on 9 Keys, serves as an efficient method for dialing phone numbers from your contacts list. This feature allows you to type letters instead of numbers, and your device will automatically identify the closest match from your address book.

After a lengthy absence, this highly sought-after feature has finally made its comeback with iOS 18. While the update boasts noteworthy enhancements such as the ability to lock or hide apps easily and new customization options for the Control Center and Home Screen, we are particularly excited about the convenience of effortless dialing. With T9 dialing now available, it promises to simplify our lives significantly!

Here’s a guide on how to quickly dial a number on your iPhone using T9 dialing.

How to Use T9 Dialing on iPhone

T9 dialing has been available on Android devices for some time, but iOS 18 brings this convenient feature to iPhone users as well. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open the Keypad in the Phone app. You will notice that each number represents three to four letters. Press the digits corresponding to the letters of the contact’s name.
2. For example, to call ‘John’, press the digits 5-6-4-6. Similarly, to dial ‘Mom’, press 6-6-6.
   

   

   

3. When the contact’s name appears at the top of the screen, simply tap on it to highlight the corresponding number, then press the dialer to make the call.
   

   

   

T9 dialing offers a quicker way to contact people, which is particularly useful if you don’t recall their phone number or if they’re not saved as favorites.

Why Wasn’t T9 Dialing Available on iPhones Previously?

T9 dialing was a popular feature in the era of phones equipped with physical keypads. However, due to the absence of such devices from Apple, this feature was never incorporated. Fortunately, with the launch of iOS 18, iPhones now finally boast what many consider a fundamental smartphone feature.

What If There Are Multiple Contacts with Similar Letter Combinations?

If there are multiple contacts with similar letter combinations, you will see a ‘More…’ option underneath the first name listed. Tap on it to select the specific contact you wish to call.

We hope this guide has provided you with helpful tips on how to quickly dial contacts on your iPhone using T9 dialing. Until next time!

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