The big 13.3 update for Gboard could merge AI and stickers

Gboard is one of the most popular keyboards among Android users, and Google is constantly adding new features to the platform. According to an APK deep-dive performed by 9To5Google, Google could be planning a big version 13.3 update for Gboard. This could, among other things, merge generative AI and stickers.

Since this is an APK breakdown, you’ll want to take this news with a grain of salt. Companies hide code for future features within the current versions of apps, so they saw hints of new features in the current version of Gboard. However, Google can change or take features away at any moment. There’s no telling if we’ll see these changes.

What to expect from the version 13.3 update to Gboard

This is going to be a pretty significant update if it makes it to the public. One feature will be like a breath of fresh air for people who like to use styluses. One feature hinted at was a handwriting feature. This would allow you to use a stylus to handwrite what you want into any text field. Motorola has a feature like this for its G Stylus phones, but this would be available to everyone with the app.

This functionality will come with some convenient gestures to make writing easier. You’ll cross out words to erase, circle words to select them, draw a vertical line to eliminate the space between letters, draw a backward “L” to make a new line, etc.

Next, you’ll be able to minimize the keyboard when you’re using voice typing. You’re able to type and speak at the same time, but if you don’t want to bother with the keyboard, you’ll be able to minimize it. As the app describes it, you’ll be able to see more of your screen when using voice typing.

Google is prepping several AI tools

Well, this should come as no surprise, seeing as this is Google we’re talking about. There are some features that are potentially on the way that could leverage Google’s AI prowess. Firstly, the company might give you infinite options for stickers thanks to Emogen.

This will use generative AI to generate emoji-type stickers that you can paste into your messages. This could be helpful, as we’ve all had those times when we’ve been searching through lists of stickers just to find the perfect one.

Next, Google will bring AI proofreading to the keyboard. We know that Gboard has a simple spell checker, but this one takes it to the next level. Gboard will actually give you corrections on your spelling, punctuation, and grammar. It will use generative AI to do this. Google notes that when you do this, the text you type, your feedback, and your interactions will be stored on Google’s servers for 60 days.

The last potential feature will remind you of the “Help Me Write” feature present in Google Docs. It’s called “tone”, and it will give you suggested rewrites for your text. If you want to sound more professional or concise, you can use this tool to rewrite your text.