Google’s innovative AI-powered dictation feature, Rambler, is garnering attention for its remarkable capabilities. Functioning similarly to existing dictation tools on smartphones, Rambler elevates the experience by automatically refining spoken words into a polished text format. This intelligent tool eliminates filler words such as “um” and “ah,” enhances grammar, and accurately interprets the speaker’s intent. For instance, if a user mistakenly states, “we need to pick whole milk…I mean, oat milk,” Rambler will seamlessly correct it to “we need to pick up oat milk.”
However, there is a catch. Despite being the brainchild of Google, the Rambler feature is currently exclusive to the Pixel 11 series. Users with non-Pixel devices, including popular brands like Samsung and Motorola, find themselves at a crossroads—either upgrade to a Pixel smartphone or explore alternative solutions.
“PixelBoard” adds Rambler to any Android
In a turn of events, developer Akshay Kadam has created a workaround by modifying Google’s Gboard app, releasing it on GitHub under the name PixelBoard. This enhanced version of Gboard is marketed as a “supercharged Gboard mod,” incorporating features from the Pixel 11 series, including the coveted Rambler dictation tool.
According to Kadam’s GitHub page, PixelBoard can run alongside the standard Gboard app without requiring users to uninstall or replace their existing keyboard. Importantly, there is no need to root the Android device, although users should be aware that this is an unofficial port that necessitates sideloading onto their devices. Caution is advised for those considering this option, despite the tool being available on a public GitHub page.
For those interested in trying out PixelBoard, Kadam provides comprehensive instructions for installation on his GitHub page. Users have three methods to choose from:
- Download PixelBoard directly from GitHub and install it via the notification drawer or File Manager.
- If you are a developer, sideload the app by connecting your phone via USB with USB Debugging enabled.
- Patch the stock Gboard APK using Morphe Manager, although Kadam recommends the first method for simplicity.
Once PixelBoard is successfully installed, users can navigate to Settings > System > Languages & input > On-screen keyboard (or Manage Keyboards) to enable PixelBoard. After selecting the keyboard switch button or spacebar selector, users can designate PixelBoard as their input method. To access Rambler, they should select “Rambler Dictation” from the settings, choose “Voice typing,” and switch the “Dictation type” from “Standard” to “Rambler.”
While the hope remains that Google will eventually extend Rambler’s availability to a broader range of devices, PixelBoard currently offers a viable solution for users eager to harness the power of this advanced dictation feature.
