Copyright Symbol Shortcuts: How to Type © on Any Device

The copyright symbol (©) is one of the most commonly needed special characters, whether you're writing legal documents, building websites, or protecting your creative work. Here's every way to type it, on every device, so you never have to Google it again.

Quick Copy

Windows Keyboard Shortcuts

Multiple methods depending on your keyboard:

• Alt Code: Hold Alt + type 0169 on the numeric keypad (Num Lock must be on)
• Word/AutoCorrect: Type "(c)" and it automatically converts to ©
• Character Map: Press Win+R, type "charmap", search for "copyright"
• Emoji Picker: Press Win + . (period), then search "copyright"

Note: The Alt code method requires a physical numpad. On laptops without one, use the Fn key to access the embedded numpad, or try the emoji picker method.

Mac Keyboard Shortcuts

• Option+G: The fastest way — press Option and G simultaneously
• Character Viewer: Cmd+Ctrl+Space, then search "copyright"
• Text Replacement: Set up in System Settings > Keyboard > Text Replacement (e.g., "(c)" → ©)

iPhone and iPad (iOS)

• Emoji Keyboard: Switch to emoji, search "copyright" — it's in the symbols section
• Text Replacement: Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement. Add "(c)" as shortcut for ©
• Copy from web: Long-press this symbol: ©

Android

• Symbol Keyboard: Tap ?123 → =\< → find © in the symbols
• Google Keyboard: Long-press the "-" key to reveal additional symbols
• Text Shortcut: Settings > System > Languages > Personal Dictionary, add "(c)" as shortcut

HTML Code

For websites and email:

CSS Code

Microsoft Office

• Word/PowerPoint/Excel: Type "(c)" and it auto-converts
• Insert Menu: Insert > Symbol > More Symbols > find ©
• Alt Code: Alt+0169 (Windows only)

Google Docs

• Type "(c)" and it auto-converts to ©
• Insert > Special Characters, search "copyright"

Related Symbols

• © (Copyright): Protects original creative works
• ® (Registered): Indicates a registered trademark
• ™ (Trademark): Claims trademark rights (registered or not)
• ℠ (Service Mark): For services rather than goods
• ℗ (Sound Recording): For audio recordings specifically

When to Use the Copyright Symbol

You don't legally need to use the © symbol for copyright to apply — copyright is automatic when you create original work. However, using the symbol:

• Makes your copyright claim publicly visible
• Deters potential infringers
• Is required in some jurisdictions for certain legal remedies
• Looks professional on websites, documents, and creative works

The standard format: © 2026 Your Name. All Rights Reserved.

Whether you're typing a quick email or building a website, now you know exactly how to get the copyright symbol on any device. Set up the text replacement shortcut once on your phone and you'll never need this guide again.