Write on Apple Watch: Using the Scribble Feature
A New Way to Text on Your Apple Watch: Introducing Scribble
Initially, composing text on the Apple Watch presented limitations. Users were restricted to pre-defined responses, emojis, simple drawings, or voice dictation, hoping for accurate transcription. However, the introduction of watchOS 3 brought a significant change to this process.
Scribble, a novel feature within watchOS 3, provides text input capabilities in applications where it is supported. Rather than implementing a full keyboard on the watch’s compact display, Scribble enables users to physically write letters directly on the screen. As characters are formed, they are instantly converted into digital text.
How to Use Scribble in the Messages App
The following instructions demonstrate using Scribble within the Messages application, though it functions similarly in email and other text-enabled apps. Begin by accessing the app screen via the digital crown, then select the Messages app icon.
Select the conversation associated with the intended recipient of your message.
Alongside the standard options – voice input, emojis, and Digital Touch – you will now find the Scribble button. Tap this button to activate the feature.
A screen featuring a gridded area will appear. Write letters within this space, one at a time. Rapid writing, layering letters on top of each other, is perfectly acceptable.
As you write, the handwritten letters are converted into typed text above the grid. A “Space” bar is located at the bottom, and a backspace button in the lower-right corner allows for corrections. Once a letter is written, an arrow button appears on the right, providing access to predictive text suggestions based on your input.
For instance, after writing “Test”, tapping the arrow button reveals a predictive text list. The digital crown can be rotated to scroll through the options. Selecting the desired word is as simple as stopping the rotation; the word highlighted by the green arrow will be automatically inserted.
Upon completing your message, tap the “Send” button.
The written message will then be displayed on your watch’s screen, and simultaneously on your iPhone, appearing as a standard text message.
The recipient will receive the message in the same format on their device.
Scribble Options and Additional Features
Further options for the Scribble feature can be accessed through a force touch on the Scribble button within a conversation.
Related: How to Quickly Share Your Location Using Messages on Your Apple Watch
Language selection is available, although currently, English is the only supported language. Furthermore, instead of verbally communicating your location, you can easily share it with others directly through your Apple Watch. Selecting “Reply” will return you to the conversation screen, allowing you to choose your preferred method of response.
Choosing “Details” on the options screen displays contact options for the person you are communicating with, enabling quick switching between communication methods.
Scribble offers a convenient method for communicating from your Apple Watch, particularly in situations where speaking is undesirable. It’s interesting to note how technology often revisits past innovations, as this feature echoes the handwriting recognition technology popular in devices from the 1990s.
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