Text field patterns
Text fields are essential input controls that let users enter and edit text within Apple's interface. Key guidelines from Apple HIG:
- Visual structure: Maintains clear boundaries between input area and surrounding content
- Placeholder text: Provides helpful context that naturally disappears during typing
- Input feedback: Shows users where they are through cursors and highlights
- State changes: Clearly indicates focus, selection, and validation states
- Field types: Adapts layout and behavior for single-line, multi-line, or specialized input
- Input support: Adds helpful features when needed — a clear button (×) to remove all text, auto-correction suggestions, and keyboard shortcuts for faster editing
Pro Tip: When validation fails, show helpful error messages below the field — never just highlight in red.
