Google is rolling out new features for Gboard on Android, giving users more control over how the keyboard looks and how it helps with writing. The biggest change is the ability to adjust the font size of the keyboard directly from Gboard’s settings rather than through system-wide display options.
To try it out, open any app that uses Gboard—like Google Messages—tap the gear icon (or long-press the comma key if it’s not visible), then head to Preferences > Font Size. From there, a slider lets you scale the font from 85 percent up to 200 percent of the default size. This not only changes the text inside the keys but also adjusts the size of icons on the toolbar, making Gboard easier to read for those with vision difficulties or more compact for those who prefer extra screen space.
The update also brings AI-powered writing tools, though these are currently limited to Pixel 10 devices. A sparkle-pencil icon in the suggestion bar activates options for grammar checks, punctuation fixes, and typo correction. Beyond simple edits, you can rephrase text to be more professional or casual, or even make it longer or shorter using voice commands like “Make it shorter” or “Rephrase this.” A new Smart Edit mode goes further, letting users replace words, insert phrases, or add punctuation entirely by voice—for example, saying “Change dog to cat” will instantly swap the word.
Early reports show the font size feature working on devices running Android 16 QPR2 Beta, such as the Pixel 6 Pro, though rollout will vary by device. Meanwhile, the AI features hint at Google’s broader push to integrate generative AI into everyday apps, starting with its most widely used keyboard.
For anyone who doesn’t already have Gboard installed, it’s available for free on the Google Play Store.
