Tech Desk
Sep 05, 2024
Google is introducing a redesigned menu for emoji stickers and GIFs on Google's proprietary keyboard, named Gboard, for tablets and foldable devices.
Gboard is one of the most popular keyboard apps used by both Android and iOS users. The keyboard provides various features that make it simple for users to type more smartly.
Emojis have become an integral part of everyday communication for many, making users add fun elements to their chats and influencing how people express themselves on smartphones.
However, there have been shortcomings. For instance, iPhones for years lacked the ability to search for emojis by name, forcing users to navigate through a long list.
Google keyboard on the other hand has always excelled in this regard and is now getting a further boost on tablets and foldable smartphones.
What's new in Gboard beta version 14.6.02?
In the latest Gboard beta updates version 14.6.02, the search has started rolling out a revamped emoji and GIF picker that works on larger screen devices.
With the update, emojis and GIFs will now appear on the right side of the screen while the left side will show titles for each category.
A similar feature has long been on smaller displays but without full descriptions that showed the categories’ icons only.
Moreover, the search bar appears slightly larger and the categories are now in a vertically scrolling carousel instead of a horizontally scrolling one.
Currently, this new picker UI is showing up on Pixel 9 Pro Fold and Galaxy Z Fold 6 only for those enrolled in the Gboard beta and Google is expected to launch it to all users shortly.
