Gboard Introduces Shortcut for Auto-Switch After Apostrophes
Google’s Gboard for Android has introduced a useful feature called the “auto-switch after apostrophes” shortcut. This enhancement aims to improve typing efficiency by automatically switching back to the letter keyboard after an apostrophe. The update is part of version 16.7, which began rolling out to stable users on February 14, 2023.
Key Feature of Gboard
With the new shortcut, users can easily complete possessive nouns or contractions without additional key presses. Previously, typing after an apostrophe required hitting the space bar or selecting the ‘?123’ key in the bottom-left corner of the keyboard.
Availability and Settings
This feature is enabled by default for all users receiving the latest update. A prompt will alert users when the shortcut is available on their devices. If preferred, users have the option to disable it through the following path:
- Settings
- Preferences
- Shortcuts
Latest Updates to Gboard
In addition to the auto-switch feature, Gboard is undergoing a broader redesign. The Material 3 Expressive design was introduced in version 16.5, enhancing the user interface. This update improves the organization of menus by using containers that group relevant options.
Furthermore, Google is testing a redesign of the shortcuts page along with rounded keys, which may improve the overall user experience.
Conclusion
The “auto-switch after apostrophes” feature is a significant improvement for Gboard users, highlighting Google’s commitment to enhancing user productivity. As updates continue to roll out, users can expect more innovations aimed at simplifying typing on mobile devices.
