Rich Text Formatting in iOS 16 Mail

Users can format text with rich styling options directly within the native Mail app in iOS 16. Apple includes a dedicated formatting toolbar that allows users to adjust font styles, text size, alignment, colors, and lists without requiring third-party tools. This guide explains the available rich text capabilities in iOS 16 Mail and provides direct instructions on how to access and apply them to your messages.

How to Access the Formatting Menu

To open the formatting options while writing an email in iOS 16:

  1. Open the Mail app and tap the compose icon, or reply to an existing thread.
  2. Tap inside the body of the email.
  3. Tap the arrow icon (<) located on the right side of the keyboard's predictive text bar (or tap the screen to summon the context menu).
  4. Tap the Format button, represented by the Aa icon.

Available Rich Text Styling Options

Once the formatting menu opens, it replaces the keyboard with a comprehensive suite of text styling tools:

  • Font Selection: Choose from system fonts to change the overall typeface of selected text.
  • Font Size: Increase or decrease text scale incrementally using the size controls.
  • Text Styles: Apply bold, italic, underline, or strikethrough formatting.
  • Color Palette: Select custom colors for your text using the built-in color picker.
  • Alignment: Align paragraphs to the left, center, right, or apply full justification.
  • Lists and Indentation: Insert numbered lists, bulleted lists, and adjust indentation levels to the left or right.

Applying Styles to Text

Formatting can be applied before typing or added to existing drafts:

  • Before typing: Tap the formatting button (Aa), select the desired font attributes, and resume typing with those styles active.
  • To existing text: Double-tap a word (or drag the selection handles to highlight a phrase), open the Aa menu, and tap the desired formatting options to apply them immediately to the highlighted text.