Top 5 Gboard keyboard features to improve mobile typing experience

By Aman RashidDespite the numerous mobile typing keyboard apps available for both Android and iOS platforms, Google’s Gboard is probably one of the most popular and used keyboards by folks worldwide. You might be one of them, relying on its convenience. But are you genuinely using Gboard to its full potential? While there are a bunch of hidden settings and features you might not know about, we have created a list of the top 5 Gboard features that will streamline your typing, boost productivity, and make every message a breeze. Want to know more? Let’s dive right into it.

1. Translate in real timeâ€èâ€è

Whether you’re trying to impress someone online or maybe you have a multilingual friend, Gboard has got you covered with its real-time translation feature. With a simple tap on the Google icon, followed by the Translate icon (resembling a folded piece of paper), you can effortlessly convert your text into another language. You simply have to choose the desired language from the dropdown menu on the right, and you’re good to go! Additionally, if you receive a message in a foreign language, worry not. Copy and paste the text into the Gboard text box and select your native language from the dropdown menu. Gboard will swiftly translate it for you, it’s that easy.

2. Use the spacebar for swift cursor placement

I have normally seen a lot of people frustratingly tapping on their phone’s screen to precisely position the cursor, and if you are one of those folks then I can understand how annoying it can be. Well, did you know a simple yet ingenious method exists to make your life easier? Instead of tapping away, try sliding your finger along the spacebar, and like magic, the cursor will elegantly glide through the text box, landing exactly where you desire. Say farewell to cursor woes as this nifty spacebar technique grants you seamless control over your text positioning. Enjoy the newfound typing convenience and let your fingers dance effortlessly across the keyboard.

3. Add shortcuts for custom phrases

Did you know you could save time by creating custom phrases with Gboard? Instead of typing out entire sentences, use shortcut words or letters to effortlessly access your frequently used phrases, complete with emojis and special characters. To set up, long-press the comma key, then slide up to the Gear icon. Tap Dictionary, select your default language, and tap the + icon at the top. Now, type in your desired phrase and below it, enter the corresponding shortcut.
So, whenever you use the shortcut, Gboard will suggest your custom phrase, allowing you to seamlessly insert it into your text.

4. Delete a line of text with a single swipe

By using a quick tap and release gesture, you can remove an entire line of text from the text bar. All you need to do is just position your finger on the delete button and slide left. And just like that, in a swift motion, an entire line in the text box will disappear, leaving your composition area clean and tidy. This way, you can say goodbye to individual character deletions, and say hello to the ease of wiping out entire lines with a single slide.

5. Floating keyboard and One-handed mode

Gboard offers an excellent accessibility feature called the Floating keyboard, which gives you the freedom to position the keyboard to any part of your screen, adjust its size, and personalize it to suit your preferences. To get started, tap the three horizontal dots located on the top right of the shortcuts tray. Choose the Floating shortcut and, if desired, drag it to your shortcut tray for easy access. Once activated, simply tap the Floating Keyboard icon, and voil ! Your keyboard becomes movable across the screen, making it more accessible and user-friendly. In addition to this, another great accessibility feature of Gboard is the one-handed mode. To access this feature on Gboard, press and hold the Comma key, then slide up to the One-Handed icon adjacent to the Gear icon.