How to type Tamil on your phone: Tamil keyboard and Tanglish tips

You can chat in Tamil script on any modern phone, with no extra app. This guide shows how to turn on a Tamil keyboard, and how to chat in Tanglish if you prefer English letters.

Android phones (Gboard)

Open Settings, then System, then Languages and input.
Choose On-screen keyboard, then Gboard, then Languages.
Tap Add keyboard, choose Tamil, pick a layout, and tap Done.
In any chat box, tap the globe key to switch between English and Tamil.

Menu names differ a little between phone brands, so use the search box in Settings and look for "keyboard".

iPhone

Open Settings, then General, then Keyboard.
Tap Keyboards, then Add New Keyboard, and choose Tamil.
In any chat box, tap the globe icon to switch keyboards.

Computers

On Windows or Mac, add Tamil as an input language in the system settings, or use an online Tamil typing tool, then copy the text into the chat box.

Tanglish tips

Tanglish means writing Tamil words in English letters, like "eppadi irukkeenga". It is quick and widely understood.
Keep sentences short, because different people spell the same word differently.
If someone does not understand, repeat it in Tamil script or in English.
Emojis help to show tone, and they work in any language.

Greetings you can copy

வணக்கம்! (Hello!)
நீங்கள் எப்படி இருக்கிறீர்கள்? (How are you?)
நன்றி! (Thank you!)

Chat in Tamil now

Common questions

Can I chat in Tanglish instead of Tamil script?
Yes. Tanglish, which is Tamil written in English letters, is welcome in the Tamil room along with Tamil script.

Do I need to install a separate app to type Tamil?
No. Both Android and iPhone have a Tamil keyboard built in. You only need to turn it on in the settings.

Can I mix Tamil, English and emojis in one message?
Yes. Switch keyboards with the globe or language key, and you can use all three in the same message.