What you need to know
In a move that enhances user experience, Gboard version 16.0 introduces a feature that allows for a more personalized typing interface. This update, now available in both stable and beta versions, includes new toggles that enable users to hide the period and comma keys on their keyboards.
Located within the Settings under Preferences, these toggles provide each punctuation key with its own switch. By default, both keys are enabled, maintaining the familiar layout. However, users can opt to disable one or both, resulting in a cleaner bottom row that showcases only the spacebar, Enter, and ?123 keys. This alteration not only widens the spacebar but also reduces visual clutter, creating a more streamlined typing experience.
This feature was initially uncovered during APK teardowns, indicating that Google was exploring options for punctuation visibility. Its official rollout marks a significant step in practical customization for Gboard, catering to the diverse preferences of its users.
Feedback from the community has been mixed; while many Reddit users appreciate the minimalist design, others express a preference for keeping the punctuation keys visible. This divergence highlights the varied needs of users, as not everyone may wish to adjust settings for such a straightforward modification.
