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boylerman

macrumors regular
Original poster
Mar 17, 2010
146
53
Massachusetts
In iOS 16, the software keyboard is displaying as a small compact version. Supposedly, I can enlarge the keyboard to the full sized version by pinching out with my fingers, however, this has no effect and I am unable to restore the default keyboard. Is there another way to bring back the full sized keyboard?
 
Tap and hold the Emoji icon to get the keyboard settings:

IMG_58E4EC541316-1.jpeg
 
Been having this issue myself from time to time. Sometimes the pinch works other times it does not. Also, the above screenshot showing the Keyboard Settings option to merge isn't always available. Again, seems random and inconsistent.

In my case it seems to happen when using the Apple Pencil to activate the smaller keyboard? I often times have trouble going back to the large one after using the Apple Pencil to activate the smaller keyboard. Can't say that this is %100 of the time but seems to often and consistent enough where I believe its related somehow.
 
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Been having this issue myself from time to time. Sometimes the pinch works other times it does not. Also, the above screenshot showing the Keyboard Settings option to merge isn't always available. Again, seems random and inconsistent.

In my case it seems to happen when using the Apple Pencil to activate the smaller keyboard? I often times have trouble going back to the large one after using the Apple Pencil to activate the smaller keyboard. Can't say that this is %100 of the time but seems to often and consistent enough where I believe its related somehow.
The OP isn't completely clear. This is posted under iPadOS, but then goes on to say "iOS"...so not sure if he's talking about the iPad or iPhone. In your case for iPadOS, it is likely the Apple Pencil causing it. The Apple Pencil keyboard isn't the same as the mini/floating keyboard even though they look similar.

If the Apple Pencil keyboard is showing, then you need to hide the keyboard and tap into a text field with your finger to get the full sized keyboard. (If in Safari, hide the keyboard and tap the address bar twice with your finger.) Here's what the Apple Pencil keyboard looks like.

1667503916050.png


If it's the regular mini/floating keyboard, then you should be able to do the pinch gesture, or drag it down to the bottom of the screen with the handle. Here's what the mini keyboard looks like. (Notice it has the text prediction and emoji key, and no Apple Pencil toolbar.)

1667502097093.png
 
Last edited:
These responses were very helpful. The issue is triggered by the Apple Pencil, but often my finger will also bring up the smaller keyboard as well - the behavior seems to be somewhat inconsistent.
 
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