Managing Custom Tags in Reminders on iOS 15

With the release of iOS 15, Apple integrated native custom tags into the Reminders app, transforming task organization and retrieval. This guide outlines the core tag management updates introduced in this release, covering inline tag creation, Tag Browser navigation, Smart List integration, and batch editing.

Adding Custom Tags to Tasks

Users can add tags anywhere within a reminder’s title or notes field simply by typing the hash symbol (#) followed by the tag name (for example, #groceries or #work). The Reminders app recognizes the text as an active tag instantly.

Alternatively, a dedicated Tag button on the quick toolbar above the keyboard allows users to select existing tags from a menu or generate a new one without manually typing the symbol. Tags can also be multi-word by using hyphens or underscores to connect words.

The Tag Browser

iOS 15 introduced the Tag Browser, located at the bottom of the main Reminders dashboard.

  • Viewing Tags: All custom tags created across all reminder lists appear in this dedicated section.
  • Filtering Tasks: Tapping a tag instantly filters all reminders across every list to show only tasks containing that specific tag.
  • Multi-Tag Selection: Users can tap multiple tags simultaneously. The app provides options to view tasks that match "All Selected" tags or "Any Selected" tags, enabling precise cross-category filtering.

Creating Tag-Based Smart Lists

Tags serve as a primary parameter for creating custom Smart Lists in iOS 15:

  1. Tap Add List on the main Reminders screen.
  2. Select Make into Smart List.
  3. Choose the Tags filter and designate specific tags that must be included or excluded.
  4. Combine tag parameters with other criteria, such as dates, locations, flags, and priority levels.

Once saved, the Smart List dynamically updates whenever a task is created or updated with the specified tags.

Renaming and Deleting Tags

Managing custom tags across the entire library is handled directly within the Tag Browser:

  • Renaming Tags: Long-pressing a tag in the Tag Browser displays an option to rename it. Changing the name updates the tag across every associated reminder automatically.
  • Deleting Tags: Users can delete a tag by long-pressing it or swiping left on it in the Tag Browser. Deleting a tag removes it from the browser and strips the tag from all associated reminders without deleting the reminders themselves.