Android L is a major release and Google has been releasing bits and pieces of it for users to sample before the official release. We tried the new keyboard that is scheduled to release with Android L. And, we like it!
As many Android fans would already know, the new material design Google Keyboard from the Android L operating system has already been ported from the developer preview made available by the company. The new keyboard works on devices running Android 4.0 and above and is available as an app on the Google Play Store.
Android L Keyboard on a Moto X smartphone.
Well, we downloaded the app on our devices and we have to say that the new keyboard feels much better than the earlier versions, including the keyboard in the current KitKat OS. Under its new design philosophy, Google has given the keyboard a flatter look, removing the borders from the keys on the keyboard. While it does bear a resemblance to the Word Flow keyboard from Windows, Google’s keyboard is still quite different.
It is the usual QWERTY keyboard, with the option to change to the French QWERTZ version as well. Unlike the KitKat version, there is no visible spacing between the keys and the space bar is slimmer than before. In addition, the ‘Enter’ key is market in green on the bottom right. Long pressing this key will take you to the Emoji menus.
(L-R) Android L Keyboard and Android KitKat Keyboard.
(L-R) iOS 8 Keyboard and Windows Keyboard.
The Android L keyboard also contains a new colour scheme. The grey and black theme has been changed to a greenish version, which looks more vibrant and colourful. Overall, the keyboard also feels much better to type on. It may be the best keyboard design brought forward by Google till date.
While this should remain the final keyboard, nothing can be said for certain till the Android L version is officially launched to the public
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Prasid Banerjee
Trying to explain technology to my parents. Failing miserably. View Full Profile
