Chinese typing guides
How to type Chinese on each device — installing the pinyin input method, switching keyboards, and the small conventions (like typing ü as v) that every real input method follows.
How to Type Chinese on Windows 11 (Pinyin Input Method Setup)
Add the Microsoft Pinyin input method on Windows 11 or 10, switch keyboards with Win+Space, and type ü with v. Includes the one setting that breaks pinyin typing practice.
How to Type Chinese on Mac and MacBook (Pinyin + Handwriting)
Add Chinese input sources on macOS, switch with Control+Space or Caps Lock, use trackpad handwriting, and type ü with v. Plus the setting to change before practising pinyin.
How to Type Chinese on iPhone and iPad (Pinyin + Handwriting)
Add the Chinese Pinyin and Handwriting keyboards on iOS, switch with the globe key, and learn why pinyin practice needs the English keyboard.
How to Type Chinese on Android (Gboard and Samsung Keyboard)
Add the Chinese Pinyin keyboard on Gboard or Samsung Keyboard, switch languages by sliding the space bar, and type ü with v.
How to Type Chinese in WhatsApp, WeChat or Any App
Apps do not handle Chinese input — your operating system does. Once the keyboard is installed, switching works the same in every app, on desktop and mobile.
Type Chinese Online Without Installing an Input Method
Options for typing Chinese when you cannot install software: browser-based input tools, copy-paste workflows, and why pinyin practice only needs a normal English keyboard.
How to Type ü in Pinyin (It Is Just the v Key)
There is no ü key on a keyboard. Every pinyin input method types it as v — plus the cases where ü is simply written as u.