The keyboard remains one of the most important elements in our mobile phones, for better or for worse. Typing on the keyboard of our Android is the main way to tell the terminal that we are entering data, either to write something down on a quick note or to communicate in a conversation. Normally all terminals come with a factory-installed keyboard and, although in many cases it is usually enough to function, not always the best solution. Luckily, Android allows us to change that standard keyboard, for another that seems more appropriate. In this article we will see how to do it.
Why replace Android keyboard?
Before entering the subject, it might be possible to ask yourself this question. It is perfectly legitimate, and there are many possible answers (almost as many as users), but there are several assumptions that allow us to synthesize it a bit:
- The pre-installed keyboards, as a general rule, do not offer facilities to enter texts in other languages (or to switch between languages). The usual thing in these cases is that the manufacturers stick to the language of the region where the devices are going to be sold.
- Third-party keyboards often give more accessibility options, making them ideal for those with low vision.
- Aftermarket keyboards generally offer alternative typing methods. For example, sliding your finger over the keys to compose a word “drawing”, something that Swype was already fashionable in its day and that has become widespread today.
- Third-party keyboards offer the most diverse customization options. There are from new visual themes, to options that allow the color of the keys to change depending on the app that is being used.
How to modify the keyboard of your phone or tablet
In order to do this you will need, first of all, a keyboard app on your phone. We are going to use SwiftKey in this example, but you can choose the option that best suits your needs. First, download and install the application.
Spanish
Android
free
As soon as you have it, open it. This setup wizard will appear:
SwitfKey Configuration Wizard
You can skip it, as there is a universal way to change the keyboard, without having to rely on assistants. Go to the route Settings> System> Languages and input text:
Language settings and text input
Click now on Virtual keyboard:
Virtual keyboard settings
After in Manage keyboards:
Virtual keyboard configuration
You will arrive at the following screen, where you will have to disable the rest of the installed keyboards and leave the one you just installed on the phone:
Custom keyboard enabled
If you now open the SwiftKey app again, you will see that the wizard setup has been completed without any problem. If you now open any application in which you can type, you will see how the keyboard that appears is SwiftKey and not the one you had installed as a base:
SwiftKey in operation
As you can see, this process is very simple if you know where to go. It has no mystery and you can complete it in a few minutes.
