The official Android keyboard by Google

Gboard (or Google Keyboard) is the free, official keyboard release for Android devices by Google. It enables you to save time by combining the most common actions smartphone users tend to perform on their phones. It allows you to type, complete Internet searches, and share content with a single bundle.

An all-in-one app

The Google Gboard app comes packed with handy, time-saving features, all of which you can use at the same time.

With Voice Typing, you can dictate and send your messages hands-free and on the go. Glide Typing makes you type even more quickly by sliding your finger from one letter to the next. Both of these features are highly accurate and smooth.

You’ll find a large letter G on your keyboard, too. By pressing it, you can perform a Google search without opening your internet browser. Other possibilities open to you through the search feature include Gboard Emojis and GIFs.

Finally, if you text in multiple tongues, the Multilingual Typing feature boasts over 120 languages. It will autocorrect and make suggestions based on your language selection. As you type, Gboard will get the hang of your style, adding names and expressions to your customized dictionary.

A smart time-saver

The Gboard app, all in all, seeks to save your time by synchronizing with other apps and products by Google. At first glance, it doesn’t feature much more than its competitors, but once you start using it, you’ll notice its high level of functionality.

Perhaps the best feature is the learning option of the app. While you use it, the smart system will adapt to your style. For example, it doesn’t stubbornly keep typos but returns the word to normal as soon as you start deleting its autocorrect.

The Multilingual feature also translates your messages for you. All you have to do is choose a language, and the app will turn your input into it.

Simple download, even simpler use

Downloading Gboard APK is quick and free. All you need to do is enter the Google Play Store and find the launch by Google Inc. The installation is the same as with any other Android app. There’s also a Gboard for iOS available for Apple users.

Having completed the installation, tap the new icon, and it will take you through the ‘getting started’ steps. Then, you’ll need to enable it through your settings. Next, go to the link market ‘Switch Input Methods’ and pick your language of choice.

The next time you use your keyboard, you’ll be presented with Gboard. If you decide you don’t like it at any time, visit your Settings to switch to another option. Gboard will remain at your disposal as long as you don’t delete the app.

Bugs and alternatives

When it comes to the issues with this app, the primary comes as a result of one of its main advantages. Although it learns your user behavior, it does so slowly. There is an option of manually adding words you frequently use to the dictionary, but it would be nice if it did so itself.

Furthermore, the plethora of features available on Gboard drain your battery life. It’s among the top battery using keyboards, the only higher being the on-screen keyboard versions.

Finally, there are issues with its privacy policy and sharing the user data it collects with third-parties. Gboard was involved in a data leak before, and although Google was quick to fix it, there is still suspicion in terms of security.

If you want an alternative, there are several viable options for you to try out. For example, the Ai.type keyboard comes with almost all Gboard features and an even smarter interface. SwiftKey Keyboard takes advantage of AI to learn your writing style. AnySoftKeyboard supports multiple languages and allows for a high level of customization.

An indispensable tool

You could go on using your smartphone without Gboard, but downloading it changes the whole game. With its 120 languages, type, search, and share options all in one free bundle, it’s one of the best keyboards available.

It isn’t the most customizable of keyboard apps, though, and the one-handed mode can be awkward for some users. Still, you’ll hardly find another such comprehensive app to boost your productivity while texting.

Google Keyboard makes text input smart and easy. Glide through letters with Gesture Typing – just lift to finish a word, no spacebar required. Compose notes on-the-go with Voice Typing. With amazing word recognition and next-word prediction, Google Keyboard helps you type faster and more accurately on all your Android devices.

Key features:
• Gesture Typing with dynamic floating preview
• Voice Typing
• Next-word suggestions and current-word completions
• Dictionaries for 26 languages
• Advanced keyboard layouts
• Works across your Android devices (tablets and phones)