Gboard

Last updated

Gboard
Developer(s) Google
Initial releaseMay 12, 2016;8 years ago (2016-05-12)
Stable release(s) [±]
Android14.8.05 (Build 686567880) / 10 November 2024;22 days ago (2024-11-10) [1] [2]
Android TV14.5.08 (Build 646428777) / 10 September 2024;2 months ago (2024-09-10) [1] [3]
Wear OS3.0.05 (Build 658283724) / 4 September 2024;2 months ago (2024-09-04) [1] [4]

In 2016, The Wall Street Journal praised the keyboard, particularly the integrated Google search feature. However, it was noted that the app does not currently support integration with other apps on the device, meaning that queries such as "Buy Captain America movie tickets" sends users to the web browser rather than an app for movie tickets installed on their phone. The Wall Street Journal also praised the predictive typing engine, stating that it "blows past most competitors" and "it gets smarter with use". They also discovered that Gboard "cleverly suggests emojis as you type words". It was noted that there was the lack of a one-handed mode (a feature added in May 2016 for Android), as well as a lack of options for changing color or the size of keys, writing that "If you're looking to customize a keyboard, Gboard isn't for you." [32] History and Evolution:

Gboard was originally launched as "Google Keyboard" for Android in July 2014, then rebranded as "Gboard" in 2016 with a major update on iOS, adding features like integrated Google search, GIFs, and emojis. Later in December 2016, Gboard was released for Android with similar features. This launch marked a big step forward in Google Keyboard's functionality, improving its usability across platforms. Notable Features:

Emoji Kitchen: In 2020, Gboard introduced "Emoji Kitchen," a feature that lets users combine emojis into unique sticker-style images, enhancing personalization in chats. Grammar Check: This feature, launched in 2021 for Pixel devices, provides grammar suggestions alongside regular autocorrect, making Gboard useful for both casual and professional communication. Offline Voice Recognition: Introduced in 2019, Gboard’s offline voice recognition allows for faster voice typing without an internet connection, particularly helpful in areas with low connectivity. Multilingual Support:

Gboard has grown to support over 1,000 languages, making it accessible to a wide user base globally. Initially, the iOS version supported only English, but it quickly expanded to include other major languages

Customizability and User Experience:

The app provides themes, including customizable keyboard backgrounds and dark mode, letting users personalize the look of their keyboard. Glide Typing is another major feature where users can type by sliding their fingers across keys, improving typing speed and convenience. Gboard also features a clipboard that can store multiple text snippets, allowing users to access and paste saved information quickly. Accessibility Innovations:

Gboard has incorporated Morse code typing and improved voice dictation features, broadening accessibility options and making it easier for users with various needs to communicate effectively.

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References

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