Apple to introduce Arabic calligraphy tools and smart keyboard in iOS 19 push for Middle East market

Apple is preparing to bring a culturally tailored writing experience to iPad users with iOS 19, as it develops a new Apple Pencil feature that mimics traditional Arabic calligraphy tools. According to sources familiar with Apple’s roadmap, the company is finalizing a virtual reed pen that aims to capture the unique flow and precision of Arabic script in digital form.

The update is part of a broader effort by Apple to expand its presence in key international markets. Alongside the new calligraphy experience, the company is also working on a dynamic bilingual keyboard for smoother transitions between Arabic and English—offering a smarter, context-aware input system for multilingual users.

These features align with Apple’s growing focus on regions like the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and India, where it continues to open flagship stores and deepen local integration. The enhancements reflect Apple's ambition to cater more directly to cultural and linguistic nuances beyond its Western-centric ecosystem.

The iOS 19 update is expected to deliver significant design changes across the system, with a cleaner look, streamlined interactions, and deeper use of AI to enhance usability. Apple is set to preview the update at its Worldwide Developers Conference, taking place June 9–13.