Web Log: Go one-handed with Google Keyboard

Raise your hand if you use your full set of digits to type on your smartphone or phablet. Aw, you can't because you're too busy trying to tap out an email using both hands. Most touch keyboards are optimised for this mode of input but the latest Google Keyboard update (for Android only) has introduced a one-handed mode.

From Keyboard settings it’s possible to switch to one-handed mode thus nudging the keyboard to the right or left of the screen where your thumb can reach across and access all keys. When used in conjunction with the existing Gesture Typing feature this is a breeze. Gesture Typing, if you haven’t used it already, takes a little practice but saves a lot of time. It works by sliding your finger or thumb from letter to letter to complete a word and autocomplete helps you get those longer words finished faster.

While one-handed mode is being touted as a solution for phablet owners it is just as useful for the average smartphone, especially if you need a free hand for essential activities like sipping on a latte. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.inputmethod.latin&hl=en