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TapKit supports multiple methods for typing text into iOS applications. Each method has different tradeoffs for speed, reliability, and setup requirements.

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Typing Methods

The shortcut method uses an iOS Shortcut to handle text input via the clipboard. When you call the type API:
  1. TapKit places the text you want to type into a server-side clipboard
  2. The TapKit Shortcut is triggered on the device, which fetches the text
  3. The shortcut copies the text to the device clipboard
  4. TapKit uses vision to locate the active text field and performs a tap-and-hold gesture
  5. When the paste menu appears, TapKit taps the “Paste” option
This method is fast and reliable for text of any length. It’s the recommended approach for most use cases. Setup required: You must install the TapKit Clipboard shortcut on your iPhone. See Shortcuts Setup for instructions. 
phone.type_text("Hello world", method="shortcut")

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Keys Method

The keys method simulates individual keystrokes using switch control automation. Each character is typed one at a time by navigating to the appropriate key on the iOS keyboard. This method works everywhere without additional setup, but is slower for longer text since each character requires multiple switch control steps.
The keyboard extension required for the keys method is not yet published. Use the shortcut method for now. We’re working on releasing the keyboard extension soon.
phone.type_text("Hello world", method="keys")

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Choosing a Method

MethodSpeedSetupReliability
shortcutFastRequires shortcut setupHigh
keysSlowNone (coming soon)High
For most use cases, we recommend the shortcut method. It’s significantly faster for anything beyond a few characters and handles special characters reliably.

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Default Typing Method

Each phone has a default typing method setting that’s used when you don’t explicitly specify a method. You can configure this via the settings API or through the dashboard. 
# Uses the phone's default typing method
phone.type_text("Hello world")

# Explicitly specify a method
phone.type_text("Hello world", method="shortcut")
See Phone Settings for more details on configuring defaults.