Google’s Gboard, the most widely used keyboard on Android, is rolling out two major updates that blend intelligence with personalization: AI Writing Tools powered by Gemini Nano and a dedicated Font Size setting. These features aim to make typing smarter, faster, and more comfortable for users everywhere.
Smarter Typing with AI Writing Tools
The headline upgrade is the arrival of AI writing tools, first introduced on the Pixel 10 and now expanding to select non-Pixel devices.
This feature leverages Gemini Nano, Google’s lightweight on-device AI model, to provide real-time text enhancements directly inside the keyboard.
Here’s what you can do:
Proofread: Catch grammar mistakes and polish sentence structure.
Rephrase: Rewrite text for clarity or conciseness.
Adjust Tone: Make your message sound more formal, casual, or professional.
The tool is accessed through an “Edit with AI” button that appears above the keyboard while typing. Since the model runs entirely on-device, users get instant results without sending data to the cloud, ensuring both speed and privacy.
Currently, the rollout is limited and device-specific, but it signals Google’s intent to bake AI into everyday apps, starting with something as essential as the keyboard.
Customization with a Font Size Slider
Alongside AI, Google is giving users more control over keyboard appearance. The latest Gboard beta (v15.9) introduces a Font Size setting, found under Settings > Preferences (or Appearance on some builds).
By default, Gboard follows the system font size, but this update lets you override it with a slider ranging from 85% to 200%. That means you can make text on keys bigger for readability or smaller for a more compact layout.
Key details:
Affects letters, numbers, and icons (emojis remain the same).
A banner “Keyboard font size updated” appears when the feature is first applied.
Some testers also report a font selection option, allowing users to switch between Google Sans and their system font.
This addition is particularly useful for accessibility, helping users who struggle with small text, while also catering to those who prefer a sleek, minimal layout.
Availability
Both features are rolling out gradually:
AI Writing Tools are live on Pixel 10 and are slowly reaching non-Pixel Android devices.
Font size control is showing up for beta users on version 15.9 of Gboard.
To try them out:
Update to the latest Gboard app via the Google Play Store.
Join the Gboard beta program to access new features early.
Check your settings under Preferences to see if the options have arrived.
As these features roll out more widely, Gboard users can look forward to a smarter and more tailored typing experience.