Customizing the color of your iPhone keyboard can add a personal touch to your device, but Apple's native options are limited. However, there are several workarounds and third-party apps that can help you achieve the desired look.
Using iOS Dark Mode
One of the simplest ways to change the color of your iPhone keyboard is by enabling Dark Mode. This feature changes the keyboard from white to a dark gray with white letters.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on Display & Brightness.
- Select Dark under the Appearance section.
This method changes the entire interface of your iPhone to Dark Mode, not just the keyboard. If you prefer to switch between Light and Dark Mode quickly, you can add Dark Mode to your Control Center.
- Open Settings.
- Navigate to Control Center.
- Select Customize Controls.
- Add Dark Mode under More Controls.
Using Third-Party Keyboards
For more customization options beyond just Dark Mode, you can use third-party keyboard apps available on the App Store.
Installing a Third-Party Keyboard
- Download a third-party keyboard app such as Gboard, SwiftKey, or FancyKey from the App Store.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on General.
- Select Keyboard.
- Tap on Keyboards at the top.
- Select Add New Keyboards.
- Choose the third-party keyboard you downloaded.
Customizing with Gboard
Gboard offers various themes and customization options:
- Open the Gboard app.
- Tap on Themes.
- Choose from the default white and black options, or select from Landscape, Light gradient, or Dark gradient themes.
- To set a custom background, tap the plus button (+) under the Custom heading, select an image, and customize it to your preference.
Customizing with SwiftKey
SwiftKey also provides extensive customization options:
- Open the SwiftKey app.
- Tap on Themes.
- Select from pre-made options including various colors, background patterns, and color gradients.
- To use a picture from your Photos app, tap the plus button (+) next to My Theme, select an image, adjust it, and set the background brightness, key pop-up color, and key background. Finally, tap Save.
Switching Between Keyboards
Once you have installed and set up a third-party keyboard, you can switch between it and the standard iOS keyboard easily:
- Open any app that uses the keyboard, such as Notes or Messages.
- Hold down on the globe icon in the bottom left corner of the keyboard.
- Select the desired keyboard from the list that appears.
Setting a Third-Party Keyboard as Default
If you prefer to use a third-party keyboard as your default, follow these steps:
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap on General.
- Select Keyboard.
- Tap on Keyboards.
- Tap Edit.
- Move the third-party keyboard to the top of the list.
- Tap Done to confirm.
By following these steps, you can customize the color and appearance of your iPhone keyboard to better suit your personal style.