To add text to a video on iPhone, open the MobileStudio Add Text to Video tool in Safari, pick the video, type your text, set where and when it appears, and download the MP4. Or use Apple's free iMovie: tap the clip, tap Titles, and choose a style. The Photos app itself can't add text to videos.
The short answer
| Method | Best for | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Add Text to Video in Safari | One headline or label, fast | Position, size, color, timing |
| iMovie | Styled, animated titles | Title styles and fonts |
| TikTok or Instagram editor | Text for that post only | The app's text tool |
Can the iPhone Photos app add text to a video?
No. Photos can trim, crop, rotate, and filter videos, as Apple's video editing guide shows, but its Markup tool is for photos. For videos, use iMovie or the browser tool.
How do I add text to a video on iPhone in Safari?
- Open Safari and go to Add Text to Video.
- Tap the drop area and choose the video from Photos.
- Type your text, up to 120 characters.
- Pick Top, Center, or Bottom, adjust Text size, and choose a Text color. Keep Background on for readability.
- Set Show text from to the start and end times.
- Tap Add text & export, then Download MP4, and save it to Photos from the Files app.
The video is processed on your iPhone, not uploaded.
How do I add text to a video in iMovie on iPhone?
- Open iMovie and start a new Movie project with your video.
- Tap the clip in the timeline.
- Tap the Titles button (a T) and pick a title style.
- Tap the sample text in the viewer, type your words, and drag it into position.
- Tap Done, then the Share button and Save Video.
Apple's iMovie titles guide has the details. iMovie titles stay for the length of the clip; split the clip to show text on only part of it.
How do I add text to an iPhone screen recording?
The same way. Labels like "Tap here to start" or "New in version 2" make app demos easier to follow. Keep the text short, and put it where the app's interface isn't busy. See how to screen record on iPhone.
How big should text be on an iPhone video?
Big enough to read on a phone without zooming. In the browser tool, 8% (the default) suits most headlines; go up to 10 to 14% for one or two words. More in best font size for video text.
How do I add text for Instagram or TikTok on iPhone?
Both apps have a text tool built in, which places text only on that post. Burning it in first with the browser tool means the same text appears wherever you share the video. See add text to a TikTok video and add text to an Instagram Reel.
Can I add text and keep the sound?
Yes. Both iMovie and the browser tool keep the original audio. The iMovie user guide covers adding music and voiceovers too.
Where MobileStudio fits
Add Text to Video is one of our free tools. MobileStudio itself turns iPhone screen recordings into polished app demos with device frames and zooms, right on your phone. Get MobileStudio.
Quick FAQ
How do I write on a video on iPhone?
Use Add Text to Video in Safari, or iMovie's Titles.
Can I add text to a video on iPhone without an app?
Yes. The browser tool needs nothing installed.
Can I choose when the text appears?
Yes. Set the start and end times in the browser tool, down to the second.
Does iMovie add a watermark?
No, iMovie exports have no watermark.
Can I change the font?
iMovie offers several title fonts. The browser tool uses a clean bold font for readability.
