Google has released the Gboard, a new app for the iOS that allows users to access Google's search engine, GIFs and emojis right from the keyboard of the iPhone or iPad.
The launch of the app was announced through a post on Google's official blog, with the Gboard now available on Apple's App Store.
To describe the functionality provided by the Gboard, Google gave the example of having to exit a communications app while texting a friend to search for information, such as the address of a restaurant. Upon searching for the information in a separate browser, the user will then have to copy the address, switch back to the communications app and then paste the address to send it.
With the Gboard, the process is much simpler because the Google logo is placed in the upper left corner of the keyboard. Tapping on the icon will bring up Google Search, and the information that is brought up can then be sent to friends with just one tap. There will be no need to switch between apps when looking for information to send to friends.
In addition to Google Search results, the Gboard can also bring up emojis and GIFs that the user would like to use in conversations, to liven up the messages with whatever emoji or GIF that the user thinks of.
Gboard also has a Glide Typing feature, which allows users to type out words by sliding their finger from key to key instead of tapping the keys one by one. This would make typing messages a bit faster and less strenuous, especially for those long strings of text.
The keyboard will work with any app on the iPhone or iPad, but for now, it is only available in English. Google, however, plans to launch the Gboard to support more languages in the future.
"On iOS, we've found from our own usage that it's a little more difficult to get quick access to information," said Rajan Patel Gboard project lead, regarding the inspiration for iOS app, especially as compared with Android, information is quickly accessed through features such as the quick search bar and Now On Tap.
