Google releases Gboard for Android, adds search to keyboard

Google on Monday released its Gboard keyboard for Android, adding expanded features and deeper integration with Google services on top of the stock Android keyboard.

Gboard's Android release comes months after its release on iOS. Its release on Android replaced "Google Keyboard."

Gboard brings the ability to use gesture typing, insert GIFs, and share searches from the keyboard.

Change log includes:

• G button (enabled in settings) offers quick access to search from the keyboard
• Pop-out toolbar (when G button not enabled) provides access to themes, settings, one-handed mode, and search
• Optional dedicated number row
• Up to three active languages with preference for one (previously had to switch)
• Gesture typing is now called Glide typing
• Search for emoji
• Rearranged emoji panel with group selection at bottom
• Emoji have bright halo effect around them
• GIF button is always shown, but disabled in apps without support.

The update still hasn't hit Google Play, but it should soon. In the meantime, advanced users can download and the APK to install over Google Keyboard. (via 9to5Google)

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