Google quietly added a nifty feature to Gboard that makes typing lightning quick

What you need to know

In a remarkable display of innovation, Gboard has recently initiated its second update within a week, enhancing the typing experience for users. This latest update introduces a feature designed to streamline access to the “hinted symbols” located on the top row of the keyboard, specifically the numbers.

  • The new functionality, dubbed “flick keys to enter symbols,” allows users to simply touch a key and pull downward to input its corresponding symbol, making typing more efficient.
  • This feature can be toggled on or off in the Gboard Preferences, providing flexibility for users who may prefer traditional typing methods.

Last week’s update also brought a fresh aesthetic to Gboard, allowing users to hide punctuation marks. This change not only creates a more minimalistic keyboard design but also expands the spacebar, offering a cleaner interface for those who appreciate simplicity.

While some users may find the absence of punctuation challenging—especially during extensive writing sessions—others may welcome the opportunity for a sleeker look.


Gboard continues to evolve, marking a significant milestone this year with over 10 billion downloads, solidifying its status as a staple in the Android ecosystem. To celebrate this achievement, Google has also refined the Shortcut UI, ensuring it seamlessly integrates with the overall Android color scheme, thus modernizing the app’s appearance since its original launch in 2013.

Additionally, Gboard has expanded its creative offerings with substantial updates to its Emoji Kitchen, allowing users to combine stickers for limitless emotional expression. This ongoing commitment to enhancing user experience keeps Gboard at the forefront of mobile typing solutions, as it adapts to the ever-changing needs of its diverse user base.

AppWizard
Google quietly added a nifty feature to Gboard that makes typing lightning quick