Gboard - the Google Keyboard for Android

Gboard - the Google Keyboard is a Tools app by Google LLC that provides a fast and smart typing experience on Android devices. It replaces the default keyboard with a feature-rich input method designed to speed up everyday communication, offering multiple ways to enter text, from gliding your finger across letters to speaking your messages aloud.

At its core, Gboard combines the reliability of a classic keyboard with modern conveniences. The Glide Typing feature lets you type without lifting your finger, while Voice Typing allows you to dictate text hands-free. For those who prefer writing, Handwriting mode supports both cursive and printed input. The keyboard also includes Emoji Search, so you can quickly find the right emoji, and GIF search to share reactions. Multilingual typing means you can switch between languages seamlessly, and Google Translate is integrated directly into the keyboard for on-the-fly translations.

This app is for anyone who spends time typing on their Android phone or tablet and wants to improve speed and accuracy. Whether you are a casual texter, a professional writing emails, or someone who communicates in multiple languages, Gboard's features are designed to make typing more efficient. It also extends to Wear OS devices, so you can use the same features on your smartwatch. The app supports hundreds of language varieties, making it a versatile choice for a global audience. It is free to use, with no ads or in-app purchases, and is suitable for all ages.

Key features

• Glide Typing: slide your finger from letter to letter to type faster
• Voice typing: dictate text hands-free
• Handwriting: write in cursive or printed letters
• Emoji Search: find the right emoji more quickly
• GIFs: search and share GIFs for reactions
• Multilingual typing: autocorrect and suggestions across enabled languages without manual switching
• Google Translate: translate text directly from the keyboard
• Wear OS support: use Glide Typing, Voice Typing, and emoji on your watch

How to install

1. Tap the download button on this page to get the APK file (9.4 MB).
2. If your browser or file manager asks for permission, allow it to install apps by enabling the 'Install unknown apps' setting.
3. Open the downloaded APK file from your notification bar or file manager.
4. Tap 'Install' when prompted.
5. Open Gboard from your app drawer.
6. Follow the on-screen prompts to enable Gboard as your keyboard and set it as the default input method.

What's New

The latest update lets you create and share custom stickers right from within Gboard, a feature powered by Pixel Studio. This is available on Pixel 9 and newer devices, supporting English, Japanese, and German in selected regions. The developer also encourages users to try the beta version to provide feedback on upcoming changes.

Gboard is ideal for Android users who want a more efficient and versatile typing experience, including those who type in multiple languages, use voice input, or frequently share emojis and GIFs. It also suits people with Wear OS smartwatches who want a consistent keyboard on their wrist.

Try the gesture controls: slide your finger across the space bar to move the cursor, and slide left from the delete key to delete multiple words at once. You can also enable a number row in Settings, use long-press symbols, or switch to one-handed mode on large screens. Customize your keyboard with themes to match your style.

Gboard is a practical and feature-packed keyboard that enhances everyday typing on Android. Its combination of glide typing, voice input, multilingual support, and built-in translation makes it a reliable choice for most users. Despite minor limitations on Android Go and some permissions, it remains a top free keyboard app for Android.