15 September 2023
How to Add Captions to Short Videos on iPhone: A Guide for Creators

Last updated: 2023-09-15
If you're looking to add captions to short videos on your iPhone, Splice is a fantastic option that allows you to quickly incorporate captions using its built-in tools. For users who prefer alternatives, CapCut offers a way to import subtitles but focuses more on desktop functionalities.
Summary
- Splice provides an intuitive way to add captions directly on iPhone.
- You can use the Closed Captions feature or the Text tool for this purpose.
- Other options like CapCut require a different approach, mainly oriented towards desktop use.
- Accessibility features make these apps suitable for creators targeting social media.
Why Use Splice for Adding Captions?
Splice offers a user-friendly mobile app specifically designed for on-the-go video creators. The Closed Captions feature allows you to easily caption videos containing English speech, making it incredibly practical for social media content. You can also use the Text tool to insert captions exactly where needed. This versatility positions Splice as an ideal editing solution for mobile users.
How to Add Captions in Splice
To add captions using Splice, follow these simple steps:
- Open your video project in Splice.
- Select the Closed Captions option if your video contains English speech, which automatically generates captions.
- Alternatively, to manually add text, choose Text from the main toolbar.
- Customize the text by selecting font, size, and color to fit your video's style.
- Position the captions on your footage as needed and preview before exporting your final video.
This method ensures that your captions are not only functional but also visually appealing, enhancing the overall quality of your video.
Comparing Other Options
While Splice excels in mobile captioning, CapCut is another popular tool offers an alternative approach but with limitations:
- CapCut Mobile does not support direct import of subtitle files, requiring users to add captions manually. This can be cumbersome compared to Splice's straightforward workflow.
- For those who use CapCut Desktop, you can use features like
Add CaptionsandImport fileoptions, yet this involves switching from mobile workflows—slowing down the editing process for those focused on short videos.
Accessibility Features
Captioning is crucial not only for enhancing viewer engagement but also for accessibility. By adding captions, you ensure your content is accessible to a wider audience, including those who are hard of hearing. Both Splice and CapCut offer features that assist in making videos more inclusive, but Splice’s mobile-first approach keeps the process straightforward.
Final Thoughts: What We Recommend
- For quick and easy captioning directly on your iPhone, Splice is the best choice.
- Utilize the Closed Captions feature for automated generation or the Text tool for more control.
- If you decide to explore desktop editing, consider CapCut, but remember its limitations on mobile.
- Always prioritize an app that fits your workflow preferences and allows for easy social media sharing.
By choosing the right app, you can maximize your video impact, ensuring your message reaches your audience effectively and engagingly.




