Gboard gains handwriting recognition for tablets and foldable phones

Gboard gains handwriting recognition for tablets and foldable phones،

Remember when we wrote by hand? Well, I barely do too. While tablet and foldable smartphone keyboards offer many features, handwriting recognition is often missing. Fortunately, Gboard now fills this gap with native handwriting support.

Android expert Mishaal Rahman (via Android titles) received a tip about going live with the feature on Gboard and shared a video demonstrating how it works. The video shows how users can easily write in text fields, delete or insert text, and even join words using different gestures.

Gboard's handwriting recognition automatically converts written text to typed text when you move on to the next word. While handwriting recognition is a core part of Apple's iPad experience with its Scribble feature, Gboard's implementation aims to set a new standard for Android devices. The feature integrates seamlessly with Gboard's existing interface, allowing users to easily switch between typing and handwriting.

For an enhanced experience, a floating toolbar appears when using handwriting recognition. It provides quick access to emojis, language switchers, clipboards and other handy tools. Users can also customize handwriting speed and stroke width in Gboard settings. And the good news doesn't stop there. Gboard's handwriting recognition isn't limited to tablets. It's also available on, for example, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5, allowing S Pen users to enjoy the benefits of handwriting on their foldable devices.

This addition comes as Android 14 introduces native stylus support to the operating system. So, if your tablet is not running the latest version, you will not be able to benefit from handwriting recognition. Google is still rolling out handwriting support in Gboard, so it may not appear on all devices immediately. However, it's a welcome addition that makes entering text on tablets and foldable smartphones even more versatile.