iPhone Teleprompter Setup: How to Prompt and Record on iOS
Your iPhone or iPad is the most accessible teleprompter you own. Here is the complete setup from tripod to first take.
Your iPhone or iPad is already the most capable teleprompter most creators will ever need. The camera is excellent, the screen is sharp, and with the right app the script overlays directly on the viewfinder. Here is how to set it up properly.
Why an iPhone or iPad Is the Best Starting Point
- All-in-one. Camera, microphone, display, and teleprompter in a single device. No second screen, no cables, no beam-splitter.
- Portable. Record on location — at home, in the office, on a job site — with nothing but your phone and a tripod.
- Instant export. Video saves to your Photos library. AirDrop to your Mac or upload straight to YouTube or TikTok.
- Zero cost. GoTeleprompter is free. A basic phone tripod is under $20.
What You Need
| Item | Why | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone or iPad | Camera + teleprompter display | You already own it |
| GoTeleprompter app | Script overlay + video recording | Free |
| Phone tripod or mount | Stable, eye-level framing | $10–25 |
| Ring light or window light | Even, flattering face lighting | $0–30 |
| Bluetooth remote (optional) | Start/stop recording without touching the phone | $8–15 |
Step-by-Step Setup
1. Mount Your Device at Eye Level
Attach your iPhone or iPad to a tripod and raise it until the camera lens is at your eye line when seated (or standing, depending on your setup). If the camera is below eye level, you look down — which reads as disengaged. If it is above, you tilt your chin up — which looks unnatural.
2. Set Your Lighting
Face a window for soft, free daylight. If you are recording at night or in a room without windows, a ring light mounted behind the phone provides even illumination. Avoid overhead-only lighting, which creates unflattering shadows under your eyes.
3. Open GoTeleprompter and Load Your Script
Tap the script editor, paste your text, and close the editor. The script now overlays on the camera viewfinder. You will see your face and your words on the same screen.
4. Configure Settings
- Font size: 24–30 pt on an iPhone held at arm's length. On an iPad, 32–40 pt at desk distance. The font size calculator can help you dial in the perfect size for your setup.
- Scroll speed: Start at 140–150 WPM. Adjust after a test read.
- Camera: Front camera for selfie-style, back camera for higher quality. The script overlay works with both.
- Microphone: The built-in mic is fine for most setups. For quieter environments, use AirPods or a clip-on lapel mic.
5. Do a Test Take
Record 20 seconds and play it back. Check: Is the text readable without squinting? Is the speed comfortable? Is the framing and lighting good? Adjust and test again if needed.
6. Record for Real
Start the scroll, start recording, and read. Aim for the two-take approach: first take for flow, second take for polish.
Record video with a built-in teleprompter on your iPhone or iPad — free.
iPhone vs. iPad as a Teleprompter
| iPhone | iPad | |
|---|---|---|
| Screen size | 6.1–6.7" | 10.9–13" |
| Portability | Fits in a pocket | Needs a bag or stand |
| Reading comfort | Good at arm's length | Excellent — more text visible at once |
| Camera quality | Excellent (latest iPhones) | Good (usually a generation behind) |
| Best for | Solo recording, on-location, vertical video | Desk setups, longer scripts, horizontal video |
Accessories That Help
- Phone tripod with ball head — allows fine angle adjustment for perfect framing.
- Ring light with phone mount — combines lighting and mounting in one piece of gear.
- Bluetooth shutter remote — start and stop recording without walking to the phone, which avoids shaky footage.
- Lapel microphone — clips to your shirt for cleaner audio, especially in noisy environments.
Want to practice before downloading the app? Use the free web teleprompter to rehearse your script in any browser.
Ready to record? GoTeleprompter is free on iPhone and iPad.
The free web teleprompter