Here’s how to use T9 dialling to make calls faster in iOS 18

Apple has integrated T9 dialling support to the iPhone with iOS 18, a feature long set to be available on Android devices.

This integration to the smartphone app lets users immediately locate and call contacts utilising the number pad, which can streamline the process of making calls.

T9 dialling, or Text on 9 keys, is a predictive text technology that appeared in the late 90s to make it simpler to type text messages on devices with restricted input options, like traditional mobile phones with numeric keypads.

Read more: iOS 18 — How to search your iPhone's call history

Each number key (2-9) on a T9 keypad is mapped to a set of letters. For example, the key "2" corresponds to "ABC," "3" to "DEF," and so on.

How to use T9 dialling in iOS 18

Gadinsider has compiled a method of how to use T9 dialling in iOS 18.

1. Open the Phone app and tap the keypad tab.
2. Type the contact's name using the number keys (e.g., for "Dad," press 3-2-3).
3. Above the keypad, tap the matching contact to call, or "X more..." to see additional matches.

This feature — T9 dialling — focuses on speeding up the calling process, particularly for users who prefer the number pad or have difficulty navigating contact lists.

Add contacts from keypad

Moreover, iOS 18 introduced new options for adding numbers to contacts directly from the keypad.

1. After entering a new number, tap the new button in the top-left corner of the keypad screen.
2. Choose "Create New Contact" or "Add to Existing Contact" as needed.