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Telegram GroupGoogle is testing a new wave of features for Gboard, the default keyboard on most Android devices, designed to make typing smarter, faster, and more intuitive. From AI-powered writing tools to flick key gestures and redesigned rounded keys, the update signals a major shift in how users interact with their mobile keyboards.
AI Writing Tools Come to Gboard
The highlight of the update is Writing Tools, an AI-powered assistant integrated directly into the keyboard. Users can enter prompts and let the AI rewrite, refine, or even generate text. Whether it’s drafting a professional email, rephrasing casual messages, or experimenting with creative writing, the feature aims to make Gboard not just a typing app, but a writing companion.
Google has been quietly testing Writing Tools for months, and the latest beta expands its usability by allowing prompts, giving users more control over the output. This could make Gboard one of the most versatile productivity apps on Android.
Flick Keys: Faster Typing for Symbols
A practical addition is the flick keys feature, where users can swipe down on a key to quickly insert its associated symbol. For example, flicking the “Q” key could insert “@.”
The idea is inspired by Apple’s iPad keyboard and is especially useful for those who frequently switch between letters and special characters. While the adjustment may take some practice, once mastered, flick keys could save significant typing time.
Smarter Layouts for Compact Phones
With compact Android phones like the Pixel 9, Samsung Galaxy S25, and OnePlus 13 making a comeback, screen real estate is more valuable than ever. Gboard’s new update introduces an option to hide the number row when typing passwords, offering more space for characters on smaller displays.
This subtle tweak ensures smoother typing for users who don’t want clutter while entering sensitive information.
Rounded Keys and Design Options
Earlier this year, Google faced backlash when it experimented with circular and pill-shaped keys on Gboard. Many users disliked the forced design change. Learning from the feedback, the latest beta lets users choose their preferred key shape — classic rectangular keys, rounded rectangles, or fully circular buttons.
This flexibility shows Google’s renewed focus on customisation, allowing people to personalise their keyboards instead of adapting to one-size-fits-all design choices.
Why These Features Matter
Smartphone keyboards are among the most-used apps on any device. A smooth and efficient typing experience impacts everything from chatting on WhatsApp to composing work documents. By bringing AI writing tools, faster gestures, and new design options, Gboard aims to stay ahead of rivals like SwiftKey while also aligning with Google’s broader AI-first strategy.
Quick Takeaway
- AI Writing Tools: Generate, rewrite, or refine text using prompts.
- Flick Keys: Swipe down on keys to type symbols quickly.
- Smarter Layouts: Hide number row for compact Android phones.
- Design Flexibility: Choose between rectangular, rounded, or circular keys.
- AI + Productivity: Gboard evolves into more than just a keyboard.
Conclusion
The upcoming Google Gboard update represents more than just cosmetic tweaks — it’s about reshaping the way Android users type and write. With AI integration, gesture-based efficiency, and a stronger focus on personalisation, Gboard is now positioning itself as the ultimate all-in-one keyboard.
While these features are still in beta and may take time to roll out to everyone, they highlight Google’s push to blend AI productivity tools with everyday user experiences. For millions of Android users worldwide, the humble keyboard might soon become one of the smartest apps on their phone.
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