Google’s Gboard, the default keyboard for millions of Android users, is receiving a significant upgrade that merges intelligent assistance with deeper customization. Two new features AI Writing Tools powered by Gemini Nano and a standalone Font Size setting are beginning to roll out, promising to make typing more efficient, personalized, and comfortable for everyone.
1. Your Personal AI Writing Assistant, On-Device
The most transformative update is the integration of AI Writing Tools, a feature first debuted on the Pixel 10 that is now expanding to a wider selection of Android devices.
This tool harnesses the power of Gemini Nano, Google’s efficient on-device large language model, to offer real-time writing enhancements without an internet connection. This provides instant feedback and ensures user privacy, as your text is processed directly on your phone and never sent to the cloud.
Users can leverage this AI for several key improvements:
- Proofread: Instantly catch and correct grammar mistakes and awkward phrasing.
- Rephrase: Rewrite selected text to be clearer, more concise, or better structured.
- Adjust Tone: Easily shift the tone of a message to be more professional, casual, or empathetic.
Accessing this feature is simple. An “Edit with AI” button appears above the keyboard while typing. Tapping it provides a range of smart suggestions that can be applied with a single click. While the rollout is currently limited to specific devices, it marks a major step in Google’s mission to embed practical, privacy-conscious AI into core mobile experiences.
2. Enhanced Readability and Customization
Beyond AI, Google is addressing a common user request with a new Font Size slider. Found in Gboard’s settings under Preferences or Appearance, this feature gives users precise control over the keyboard’s text size.
By default, Gboard matches your system’s font size. This new slider allows you to independently adjust the keyboard’s text from 85% to 200% of the default size.
- For Accessibility: Making the letters and numbers larger can significantly improve readability for users with visual impairments.
- For Preference: Others may prefer a more compact, minimalist look and can shrink the text to see more of their screen.
It’s important to note that this setting affects letters, numbers, and symbols, but not emojis. Some beta testers have also reported seeing an option to choose between the Google Sans font and their device’s default system font, offering even more visual customization.
How to Access These New Features
Both updates are being released in a gradual, staged rollout.
- AI Writing Tools: Initially available on the Pixel 10, this is now slowly expanding to other supported non-Pixel Android devices.
- Font Size Control: This feature is currently live for users enrolled in the Gboard Beta program (version 15.9 and above).
To try these features:
- Ensure you have the latest version of Gboard installed from the Google Play Store.
- Consider joining the Gboard Beta program for early access to new features.
- Check your Gboard Settings > Preferences to see if the Font Size slider or AI options have arrived on your device.
These updates represent Google’s continued investment in making its core tools more adaptive and user-friendly, transforming the simple act of typing into a smarter and more personalized experience.
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