iOS 19 to add new bilingual Arabic software keyboard, virtual calligraphy pen for Apple Pencil

Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman continues his iOS 19 tidbits streak by revealing two upcoming new features in the latest edition of his Power On newsletter, which was published today.

Gurman says that iOS 19 will include a major localization focus on supporting customers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and India. Specifically, that entails a new Arabic-English software keyboard for iPhone and a new calligraphy pen for Apple Pencil users.

From today’s Power On, Gurman says:

I have two more notable features to share this week, and they play into Apple’s ambitions for the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and India. The company has been expanding its retail footprint in those places — and the markets are seen as future growth drivers. To that end, two relevant iOS and iPadOS features are coming. One is a highly advanced bi-directional keyboard for moving between Arabic and English. The other is a virtual reed calligraphy pen for Apple Pencil users.

Gurman has previously reported iOS 19 will include other smaller enhancements like improving the connection experience to public captive WiFi networks, and AI-powered battery life optimization. The major change for iOS 19 is expected to be a visual design overhaul, featuring an updated system theme, changes to app navigation metaphors like tab bars, and updated icons.