T9 Dialing is Back on iPhone with iOS 18 – Here’s How It Works

Apple’s iOS 18 update, released in September 2024, introduced a new feature many may remember from older phones: T9 dialing.

This feature allows iPhone users to call someone by typing their name directly into the keypad, making it quicker and easier to make calls.

What Is T9 Dialing?

T9, or “Text on 9 keys,” was a system used on older phones with a 12-key keypad. Each key on the keypad had multiple letters assigned to it.

For example, the number 2 corresponds to the letters A, B, and C. To text, you had to press the number key multiple times to get the letter you wanted.

For example, to type “Hello,” you would press 4-3-5-5-6. T9 dialing works in a similar way, allowing you to dial contacts by typing the numbers that correspond to the letters of their name.

How to Use T9 Dialing on iPhone

With iOS 18, T9 dialing is available directly from the Phone app. Here’s how to use it:

1. Open the Phone app on your iPhone.
2. Tap Keypad at the bottom of the screen.
3. Start typing the name of the person you want to call using the T9 method. For example, to call your dad, you would type 3-2-3.
4. As you type, the name of the contact should appear at the top of the screen.
5. Once you find the right contact, tap their name, and their phone number will automatically be entered.
6. Press the green call button to start the call.

If there are multiple contacts with the same name, you will see an option like “3 more…” which will show all the matching contacts. Select the correct one, and your call will begin.

Why Is This Useful?

T9 dialing is a faster way to make calls without searching through your contacts or messages. It’s a feature many will find useful, especially if they miss the old days of T9 texting.

So, next time you need to make a call, just type the numbers on your keypad and let iOS 18 do the rest.