Most of us use Gboard every day without realizing how powerful it really is. Sure, it helps you type messages and search the web, but if you take a moment to dig deeper, there’s a lot more waiting under the surface. Gboard quietly handles voice input, quick translations, emoji mashups, and even cross-language typing without needing other apps. I
While it’s popular on Android, even iPhone users are switching to Gboard for its extra functionality. However, many of its best features go unnoticed. If you've been using Gboard for a while, you might be missing out on some helpful tricks that can really speed things up.
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When you're typing on a small phone screen, fixing a typo or trying to move the cursor to a specific spot can feel like a hassle. That's where Gboard's editing mode helps. It opens up a new set of tools that let you move through your text easily, like having arrow keys and editing options right at your fingertips.
To try it out, open Gboard in any app and tap the four-square menu icon at the top. Select the "Text editing" tile to activate this mode. If you want faster access in the future, you can even drag this tile up to your toolbar. Once you're in, you'll see arrow keys for precise movement, a select key to highlight text, and buttons to copy, paste, or cut. This mode can really speed things up if you often work with longer messages or need to correct multiple lines of text.
People who regularly send emails or edit documents on their phone will find this tool helpful. Instead of tapping and holding to adjust the cursor, you can now move it exactly where you want. It’s an underrated part of Gboard, but once you try it, you might not go back.
Switching between apps while chatting in another language can slow down the conversation and break your focus. With Gboard’s built-in translation tool, you can convert your message to a different language in real-time, as you type.
To access this, bring up Gboard, tap the four-square icon, and choose "Translate." Set the input to "Detect language" if you’re not sure what you’re typing in, and pick your output language. As you type, Gboard handles the translation and inserts the translated version directly into your text field. You can keep going without needing to copy and paste anything.
This is especially helpful if you're traveling, talking to international friends, or learning a new language. It makes multilingual communication less intimidating. You also save time since the translation happens instantly and within the same app.
If you find yourself typing certain words or phrases frequently—like your email address, phone number, or favorite emoji—you can save time by creating custom shortcuts in Gboard. This makes repetitive typing much easier.
To get started, open the Gboard menu, go to Settings, then tap "Dictionary" and "Personal Dictionary." Choose your language and tap the + button. In the first field, enter the full word or phrase. In the second field labeled "Optional shortcut," type the short version or trigger word you want to use. Tap the checkmark to save it.
Once set up, just type your shortcut, and Gboard will suggest the full version at the top of the keyboard. Tap it, and it’ll appear in your message. This comes in handy if you’re someone who often types out standard replies or details like addresses or links. It’s also great for people who want to add a personal touch with favorite sayings or inside jokes.
We’ve all had those moments where we typed a whole sentence in lowercase by accident. Instead of deleting it and starting over, Gboard lets you quickly switch the case of your text with a simple trick.
First, tap and hold on the text to select it. Once it’s highlighted, tap the shift key on the keyboard. Keep tapping it to cycle through lowercase, UPPERCASE, and Capitalized Word styles. This helps when you're writing formal messages or correcting formatting errors.
This function saves time and effort, especially when editing longer pieces of text. It's also perfect for those who prefer drafting in lowercase and fixing formatting later. This way, you stay focused on your writing without breaking the flow just to fix letter cases.
Taking a screenshot and then digging through your photo gallery to share it can be a bit of a process. Gboard simplifies this by allowing you to access your most recent screenshot right from your keyboard.
First, go into Gboard’s settings and open the "Clipboard" section. Turn on the toggle next to "Save recent screenshots in clipboard." After this is enabled, any screenshot you take will be available the next time you open Gboard.
Once it’s saved, you’ll see a small thumbnail of the screenshot appear on your keyboard. Tap it to open a preview and hit send. If the app you’re using allows it, you can even edit the image before sharing. This tool is especially useful for people who share a lot of visual content or need to send receipts, directions, or confirmations quickly.
Typing isn't always the most convenient option—especially when you're walking, multitasking, or simply too tired to tap away at your phone. That’s where Gboard’s voice input tool can save time. It allows you to talk into your phone and have your words instantly appear on the screen. The feature is embedded right in the keyboard, so you don’t have to download anything extra.
To use it, open any app where Gboard is active and look for the small microphone icon at the top-right corner. Tap it, allow the mic permission if prompted, and begin speaking. As you talk, your words will be converted into text in real time. This can be especially useful if you're responding to a message while your hands are occupied, like when you're cooking or walking the dog.
Voice typing on Gboard works in multiple languages, not just English. Before using another language, you’ll need to switch your Gboard settings to that language. Accuracy can vary depending on the language, but for common ones like Spanish or French, the results are pretty reliable. While it’s not flawless yet, it’s getting better with updates.
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Using more than one language in your conversations? Gboard makes it easy to switch between different languages so you can type exactly how you speak in real life. Whether you’re texting family overseas or switching between professional and casual tones, adding a new language can make your keyboard a lot more versatile.
To add a new language, open any messaging app and bring up the keyboard. Tap the gear icon on the top row to go to settings. Under the 'Languages' tab, tap the “Add Keyboard” button. You’ll see a list of available languages—choose the one you need, then pick the layout that fits your typing style. Some languages come with multiple layout options, so pick what feels most familiar.
Once you’ve added a language, switching between them is simple. Just press and hold the spacebar. This brings up a list of languages you’ve installed. Tap the one you want, and Gboard will instantly change to that keyboard layout. This can make a big difference if you’re regularly moving between languages in your messages, emails, or notes.
