If you’re looking for something different than the traditional laptops and desktop computers, you might want to consider using a physical keyboard with your tablet. And if you have an Android tablet, you’ll be pleased to know that the latest Gboard version 13.6+ comes with some exciting new features (via 9to5Google). However, it’s important to note that this new feature is not yet available on all Android tablets and is being rolled out gradually.
So, what’s all the fuss about? With the latest Gboard version, a new Gboard toolbar will appear when you connect a physical keyboard to your tablet. This toolbar is pill-shaped, can be moved anywhere on the screen, and provides a suggestion strip, similar to the one offered by the virtual Gboard. This suggestion strip was previously only accessible if the full software keyboard was open, taking up a considerable amount of screen space. Additionally, the toolbar includes a button to shrink it down to a vertical pill on the left or right edge, as well as quick access to the emoji picker.
Users have the option to turn on or off the new toolbar in the Gboard’s “Physical keyboard” settings. There are also preferences for Emojis on the toolbar, Suggestions while typing, Auto-capitalization, and Auto-correction.