Gboard gets a split keyboard for tablets and foldables

It hasn’t been officially announced yet, but references to a split keyboard for tablets and for foldable smartphones are said to have been found within Gboard’s code. Such a split keyboard makes it easier to type with two hands at the same time.

Split keyboard

Tablets are often not the most pleasant devices to use for typing emails or documents, but it is possible. Of course it is much easier if you use a separate, physical keyboard, but with the virtual keyboard it is always a matter of looking for a pleasant way. So get used to it.

Google Keyboard Gboard will hopefully change that soon: it would come with a split keyboard, which should provide more typing comfort, as you can easily reach all letters. AndroidPolice spotted this in the code of the beta of Gboard (version 11.5.05.427194903). You could even duplicate certain buttons, but what it will look like in the end is unknown.

gboard

Currently, people with Samsung devices such as Galaxy Z Fold 3 can use Samsung’s keyboard, Samsung Keyboard, to use a split layout for typing. The hope now is that Gboard will also come to tablets and foldable devices. It also recently released Android 12L, which allows for better multitasking in split screen and a better user experience on a larger screen anyway.

A split keyboard has space between the keys: on the left and on the right. You often see the splits between 5 and 6, t and y, g and h and v and b. The space bar goes in half, because you often use it with both thumbs. Furthermore, on this type of keyboard you will find all the keys that you would also find on a non-split keyboard, so that you do not lack anything when you want to type entire emails and documents.

Have you ever used a split keyboard? How do you like that? Leave it now in the comments below this article.