How to type the division symbol (÷) on iPhone
The iPhone’s built-in keyboard does not include the division symbol, even on the #+= page. To type ÷ on iPhone, copy it from this page once and save it as a Text Replacement. From then on, a short code turns into ÷ in Messages, Notes and every other app.
Quick answer
Copy ÷ above → Settings → General → Keyboard → Text Replacement → + → paste ÷ as the phrase and use a shortcut like div/.
Step by step
Copy ÷
Tap Copy at the top of this page.
Create a text replacement
Open Settings → General → Keyboard → Text Replacement and tap +.
Paste and name it
Paste ÷ as the Phrase. For the Shortcut, type something unique such as div/.
Type the shortcut
Type div/ and a space in any app; it becomes ÷.
What the iPhone keyboard offers
The 123 page has digits and basic punctuation, and the #+= page adds brackets, currency and a few extras. Maths operators beyond + and = are not there, and a long-press on / or - does not reveal ÷. The Calculator app shows a ÷ button, but you cannot copy the sign from it, so a text replacement is the practical answer.
For homework and quizzes
If you write division problems in Notes or Pages on an iPad, the same shortcut saves time. You can also collect several symbols in the tray at the bottom of this site: tap ÷, ×, − and =, then copy them all at once and paste them into a note to reuse. The math symbols collection has every operator in one place.
With a hardware keyboard
An iPad with a Magic Keyboard, or any Bluetooth keyboard paired to an iPhone, understands the Mac shortcut: Option + / types ÷. See ÷ on a Mac for the details.
Do not use a look-alike
Some people substitute the Unicode “divides” sign or a colon. The correct character for the school division sign is U+00F7, which you get from this page. The division symbol page lists its codes, and the iPhone symbols guide covers the characters that are available from the keyboard.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a division symbol on the iPhone keyboard?
No. Neither the 123 nor the #+= page has ÷, and it is not in any long-press menu on the English keyboards.
How do I make ÷ appear when I type?
Add a text replacement in Settings → General → Keyboard → Text Replacement, with ÷ as the phrase and a shortcut such as div/.
Can I use a keyboard shortcut on iPad?
Yes. With a hardware keyboard attached, press Option + / to type ÷.