Google has released an iOS exclusive keyboard that makes even Android users green with envy. It’s called the Gboard, and it enhances the text messaging experience for iPhone users allowing them to search the web for images, weather, restaurants and GIFs all from within the Messaging app! That’s right, no more backing out and opening several separates apps to accomplish something as simple as copying an address from Google. The Gboard is simple to install and works very similarly to other keyboards available on the app store. Once installed and given full access, the Gboard icon appears next to the autocomplete suggestions and is ready to go. The Gboard is even equipped with Google’s own Glide Typing, which allows you to slide your fingers over letters to form words. This isn’t exactly new or innovative technology, but it’s nice to see it included anyways. Possibly the most useful feature found tucked away within the Gboard is the ability to search for Emojis by name, eliminating the hassle of searching through hundreds of Emojis trying to spot a specific one. After using the Gboard myself for a few hours, I can already agree that the convenience of having everything in one place is a huge win. However, the Gboard isn’t without any downsides; while enabled, you lose the Microphone icon which allows speech-to-text. For some this may not be noticeable, but for many, this could be quite frustrating. Overall, the Gboard is great addition to the iOS Messaging app, and while you miss a feature with it enabled, the vastly enhanced search functionality more than makes up for it.
