Google's Gboard, one of the most popular keyboards on Android, is reportedly working on three upcoming enhancements that could significantly improve typing and customization. Based on an APK teardown of the beta version v17.7.4.932364120, these features include a dedicated cursor mode toggle, an emoji size slider, and a new layout with full-sized keys. While still in development, they hint at Google's commitment to refining the user experience.
Cursor mode activation via long-press spacebar
A new toggle would allow users to enter cursor mode by long-pressing the spacebar. While Gboard already lets you slide across the spacebar to move the cursor, this explicit toggle makes the function more discoverable and precise. Users can quickly correct typos or edit text without extra gestures, reducing friction. This aligns with trends in keyboard customization, much like other apps are enhancing their interfaces. For instance, WhatsApp now lets you reserve a username to avoid sharing your phone number, showing how app customization is evolving.
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Slider to adjust emoji size
Another welcome addition is an emoji size slider within the emoji picker. Users can drag a slider to make emojis larger or smaller, tailoring them to their visual preference or screen size. This feature addresses the growing role of emojis in communication and improves accessibility. The ability to adjust graphical elements is becoming standard in modern apps.
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New layout with full-sized keys
The third tweak introduces a keyboard layout with full-sized keys. Unlike compact layouts that compress key sizes, this new design maximizes the touch area of each key, reducing miss-taps. It might be particularly useful on larger screens or in landscape mode. Gboard has a history of innovative features like glide typing and integrated search. For more background on Google's keyboard development, refer to the Gboard Wikipedia entry.
These three features, if officially released, will make Gboard even more versatile. Users can look forward to a beta rollout in the coming months.
Source: https://www.androidauthority.com/gboard-tweaked-cursor-mode-emoji-size-apk-teardown-3682140
