Gboard, Google’s widely-used virtual keyboard for Android devices, has introduced a new feature that allows users to hide the period and comma keys, offering a more personalized typing experience. This update follows the recent rollout of the Font size setting, further enhancing Gboard’s customization options.
Accessing the New Feature
To utilize this feature, navigate to Gboard Settings > Preferences. Here, you’ll find two new toggles: Comma key and Period key: Show on keyboard for applicable languages. By default, these options are enabled, maintaining the traditional keyboard layout. Disabling them removes the respective keys from the keyboard interface.
Impact on Keyboard Layout
Disabling the period and comma keys results in a cleaner bottom row, displaying only the ‘?123’ key and the enter key. This adjustment creates a wider space bar, which some users may find more comfortable. It’s important to note that while the period key can be omitted without significant inconvenience—since double-tapping the space bar inserts a period—the removal of the comma key might require users to adapt their typing habits.
Considerations for Users
Users who prefer a symmetrical keyboard design can choose to disable the comma key while retaining the emoji key, which has been customizable for some time. This configuration maintains balance in the keyboard’s appearance. However, those who frequently use the comma may need to adjust to its absence or reconsider disabling it.
Availability
This feature is being rolled out widely on both beta and stable channels with Gboard version 16.0 and above. Users are encouraged to update their Gboard app to access this new customization option.
Enhancing User Experience
The introduction of this feature underscores Google’s commitment to providing a flexible and user-centric typing experience. By allowing users to tailor the keyboard layout to their preferences, Gboard continues to evolve as a versatile tool for Android users.
