When it comes to iPhone usability, Apple’s stock keyboard still leaves a lot to be desired. You can search the web, read Apple’s manual, or dive into forums and subreddits, but no matter how hard you try, there’s one feature that’s still missing from your iPhone: a dedicated number row on the keyboard.
As Apple continues to develop its robust ecosystem and focuses on the sleek designs of the future, it seems to have overlooked some of the more basic features of iOS. Despite nearing the 20th anniversary of both the iPhone and iOS, Apple has still failed to address this significant usability flaw.
The iPhone’s keyboard, which has been around since the device’s inception, has never included a number row above the QWERTY layout. Android users have had this feature for years, but iPhone users are still left pressing the “123” button to access the number keys. There’s no setting or shortcut to make this essential feature appear above the letters-what you see is what you get. The only way to add a number row is by installing a third-party keyboard, like Gboard or SwiftKey. While these are good alternatives, the fact that the default keyboard still doesn’t have this basic function is simply embarrassing.
If you’re determined to stick with Apple’s stock keyboard, there are a couple of workarounds you can try, though they’re hardly ideal. One option involves holding the “123” key, swiping up to select a number, and releasing your finger. While this sounds good in theory, it’s far from intuitive in practice. Another method involves holding the “123” key with one finger and tapping the numbers from the row with your other hand. But that’s awkward, requiring both hands to type.
It’s clear that Apple has been stubbornly committed to its “we know best” mentality, forcing users to adapt to its quirky design decisions instead of offering real solutions. The lack of a number row is especially frustrating when you consider that Apple recently revamped iOS with its Liquid Glass design, which could have been the perfect opportunity to rethink the entire keyboard layout.
All Apple would need to do is add a simple toggle to enable a permanent number row on the iOS keyboard, leaving it off by default for users who prefer the current layout. It wouldn’t take up too much screen space, especially on newer models with larger displays like the iPhone 16 Pro Max. Yet, despite years of feedback from users, this minor yet essential update still hasn’t made its way into iOS.
So as we approach the 20th anniversary of the iPhone, let’s hope Apple finally addresses this longstanding flaw and gives users more control over their keyboard experience. In the meantime, enjoy the fancy parallax wallpapers, everyone.
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