In a notable update, the Gboard app for Android has introduced a feature that allows users to streamline their typing experience by hiding the period and comma keys from the QWERTY keyboard. This change is particularly useful for those who prefer a minimalist interface while texting or emailing.
Look for these new settings on the Gboard for Android app on your phone
To access this feature, users can navigate to the Messages app and initiate a text. By tapping the gear icon to open the Settings menu and selecting Preferences, they will find new options regarding the comma and period keys:
- Comma key: Show on keyboard for applicable languages.
- Period key: Show on keyboard for applicable languages.
Both settings are enabled by default, allowing users the flexibility to disable either key if desired. When both are turned off, the bottom row of the keyboard is simplified, leaving only the ?123 button and the enter key, effectively creating a larger space bar for enhanced typing comfort.
Interestingly, even if the period key is disabled, users can still insert a period by double-pressing the space bar. However, the absence of the comma key means that users will need to keep it enabled if they wish to include commas in their communications.
These are the options you have to choose from on the latest version of the Gboard for Android app
The options available for users regarding the comma and period keys include:
- Keep both the Comma key and Period key enabled.
- Keep the Period key enabled and disable the Comma key.
- Disable the Period key and keep the Comma key enabled.
Additionally, users can further customize their experience by enabling or disabling the Emoji key. The default setting of having both keys enabled is a thoughtful approach by Google, ensuring that users do not find themselves in a situation where they need a comma mid-sentence but cannot locate the key.
This update to the Gboard settings menu is available for both stable and beta versions of the app. Users can explore these new settings on devices such as the Pixel 6 Pro running Android 16 QPR2 Beta 3.1, with Gboard version 16.2.4.815623744 beta.
In other news, an exciting project titled “Iconic Phones: Revolution at Your Fingertips” is set to launch this Fall. This coffee table book promises to take readers on a captivating journey through the technological advancements of the 21st century. For those interested in early bird discounts, further details can be found through the provided link.
