Apple Adds First-Ever Wixárika Keyboard to Devices in Landmark Collaboration
Guadalajara, Jalisco, November 12, 2025 – Apple devices now feature a keyboard supporting the Wixárika language, thanks to a collaborative effort with the University of Guadalajara’s (UdeG) Center for Indigenous Studies (CUAAD). The new keyboard, preinstalled on Apple devices and available for download on other operating systems, addresses a meaningful barrier for Wixárika speakers - the inability to easily represent their language digitally due to characters not existing on conventional keyboards.
The project stemmed from the challenges faced by Wixárika speakers attempting to write in their native tongue using standard keyboards, frequently enough requiring them to substitute similar-looking characters. “It was very complicated to write naturally, already on the physical keyboard, as manny of the characters that are part of the language do not come, and we looked for the signs that were most similar,” explained a representative from the CUAAD. “Now, all people will be able to write naturally with the keyboards that will already be included in this new update.”
Beyond software integration, the CUAAD has donated equipment with the updated keyboard to Wixárika high schools equipped with digital learning labs, facilitating the creation of educational materials in the Wixárika language.
UdeG Rector López Pérez emphasized the initiative’s importance, stating it reinforces the university’s commitment to inclusion, digital equity, and the preservation of native languages. Further collaborations are planned to incorporate other indigenous languages into the digital surroundings.
“This digital environment is part of our contemporary life,and the importance of this project focuses on respecting the worldview of these native communities,their customs; the fact that they can transmit their entire culture through digital environments,” López Pérez said.
The keyboard can be activated in Apple device settings under the language and keyboard section by selecting Wixárika.
Text: Laura Sepúlveda Velázquez
Photography: Adriana González
