The Gboard keyboard, developed by Google for Android (and iOS), is preparing to receive an important update to improve the typing experience on foldable devices. At the same time, this update shows that the Google Pixel Fold is also getting closer to launch.
As detailed on Reddit (via Android Central), the new UI mode shifts half of the keys to the left of the screen and the other half to the right. That is, when holding a larger, foldable device with both hands, the keys are in a more natural position relative to your thumbs.
However, you must currently be running the beta version of Gboard for Android to use this feature, and you may have to wait before Google enables the split keyboard option on your device model.
In the Gboard interface, the new feature will be available if you see a split keyboard icon above the number row, just to the right of the gear icon. Just tap this icon to switch between normal layout and split layout.
It’s worth noting that the default Samsung keyboard on foldable devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 already offers this layout option. However, some users prefer to use Google’s own Gboard as their preferred Android keyboard.
At this time, it’s unclear how long it will take for the feature to transition from beta to standard implementation of Gboard. It is also not included in the iOS version, as there is no foldable iPhone yet.
Although there is no confirmation that a Google Pixel Fold is on the way, there are many signs that we will encounter such a device in the near future. The Gboard update can also be seen as the latest tip in this direction.
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