Google Keyboard Update May Hide Punctuation Like the iPhone

Google's Gboard keyboard is undergoing beta testing for a new feature: the option to hide punctuation keys. This change, mirroring Apple's iPhone keyboard, has sparked user frustration.

While potentially simplifying the transition for iPhone users switching to Android, the removal of readily accessible punctuation keys is a significant alteration. Although autocorrect can compensate, the unexpected shift in keyboard layout is proving disruptive for existing Gboard users.

As reported by Android Authority, the latest Gboard beta introduces a toggle to enable or disable punctuation keys. With the feature enabled, users must access punctuation via the "?123" key, a change many find unnecessary and unwelcome.

This isn't an isolated incident; Gboard recently underwent other controversial design changes, including random alterations to button shapes (square, rounded, pill-shaped), further disrupting user experience.

Related: 10 Gboard Keyboard Features You Should Be Using on Android

Currently, the punctuation-hiding feature is optional in the beta version. Its future implementation remains uncertain; hopefully, it will remain optional rather than a forced update.

Google's rationale likely involves streamlining the keyboard's appearance and facilitating a smoother transition for iPhone users accustomed to a hidden punctuation layout. The keyboard is a primary interaction point, making its design crucial for user experience. Therefore, attracting iPhone users by minimizing the learning curve is a plausible motive.

This isn't the first instance of Android adopting iPhone features. Samsung's One UI 7 update, for example, incorporates some criticized Apple design choices, including a revamped notification system. Fortunately, Samsung retains the old notification style as an option.

While Gboard remains a top Android keyboard, continued implementation of such drastic and potentially unwelcome changes might push users to seek alternatives. The current beta status means the final outcome remains to be seen.

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