Step-by-Step Guide: Installing Sogou Input Method on macOS

If you’re a Mac user looking for a smarter, faster, and more accurate Chinese typing experience, Sogou Input Method (搜狗输入法) is a top choice 搜狗输入法. This popular input method supports both simplified and traditional Chinese and is known for its advanced predictive text and vast vocabulary library.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the step-by-step process to install Sogou Input on macOS quickly and smoothly.


🖥️ What Is Sogou Input Method?

Sogou Input is one of the most widely used Chinese input methods in mainland China. It offers:

  • Smart word prediction
  • Cloud-based vocabulary updates
  • Customizable skins
  • Support for pinyin, handwriting, and voice input

It’s ideal for students, professionals, and anyone frequently typing in Chinese.


✅ System Requirements

Before we begin, make sure your Mac meets these requirements:

  • macOS 10.12 (Sierra) or later
  • Stable internet connection
  • At least 200 MB of free disk space

🔧 How to Install Sogou Input Method on macOS

Step 1: Download the Installer

  1. Visit the official Sogou Input website: https://pinyin.sogou.com/mac/
  2. Click the blue “立即下载” (Download Now) button to start the download.

💡 Tip: If the site opens in Chinese, use Google Translate or right-click to translate to English.


Step 2: Open the Installer

Once the download is complete:

  1. Locate the .dmg file in your Downloads folder.
  2. Double-click to open it.
  3. In the pop-up window, double-click the Sogou Input Installer icon to begin installation.

Step 3: Grant Permissions

macOS may ask for permission to open the installer from an “unidentified developer.” If prompted:

  1. Go to System Settings > Privacy & Security
  2. Under Security, click Open Anyway
  3. Then click Open in the confirmation dialog

Step 4: Install the Application

Follow the on-screen instructions:

  1. Click Continue to proceed through the setup screens.
  2. Agree to the license agreement.
  3. Click Install.
  4. You may be prompted to enter your Mac password — go ahead and do so.
  5. Wait for the installation to complete and click Finish.

Step 5: Enable Sogou Input

Now that it’s installed, enable Sogou in your input sources:

  1. Open System Settings > Keyboard
  2. Click Input Sources
  3. Click the “+” button
  4. Search for Sogou Pinyin and click Add

You should now see a new icon in your menu bar for switching between input methods.


🌟 Optional Customizations

  • Skins & Themes: Open Sogou Input > Preferences > Skins to customize the look.
  • Shortcuts: Set up hotkeys for quick switching.
  • Cloud Input: Log in to sync your dictionary and preferences across devices.

🧹 How to Uninstall (If Needed)

If you ever want to remove Sogou:

  1. Open the Sogou installer .dmg file again.
  2. Double-click Uninstall Sogou Input Method
  3. Follow the instructions to remove it completely.

✍️ Final Thoughts

Sogou Input Method brings a powerful typing experience to macOS users who type in Chinese. Whether you’re writing emails, taking notes, or chatting with friends, it makes the process smoother and more intuitive.

Let me know if you run into any issues during installation or want to explore advanced features—I’m happy to help!