TECHNOLOGY

Why Google's Keyboard Needs a Major Upgrade

Tue Sep 02 2025

The Pixel 10 Pro is a solid phone, but it's not groundbreaking. It's a bit like last year's model with a few tweaks. One thing that stands out is the keyboard.

Gboard vs. SwiftKey: The Keyboard Dilemma

  • Gboard comes pre-installed, but many users, including long-time SwiftKey fans, might find themselves switching to SwiftKey right away.

  • SwiftKey has been around for over a decade. It's owned by Microsoft, but many people still use it because of one key feature: cloud backup for your personal dictionary. This means you can keep your custom words and phrases synced across all your devices.

  • Gboard, on the other hand, doesn't offer this. You have to manually transfer your dictionary, which can be a hassle.

  • Samsung and Apple have addressed this issue with their keyboards. Samsung's keyboard syncs across devices, and Apple uses iCloud to keep your dictionary up to date. SwiftKey also syncs across devices, even on iOS. This is a big advantage over Gboard.

  • Google should really consider adding this feature to Gboard. It's not just about convenience; it's about making the user experience better. Privacy concerns are valid, but other companies have found a balance. Google, which is all about organizing information, should be able to do the same.

Beyond the Keyboard

The Pixel 10 Pro has some impressive features:

  • The camera zoom is a big deal.
  • The magnetic charging is a nice touch.

However, the phone is a bit heavier than last year's model, and the battery life could be better. The AI features are useful, but they're not enough to make the phone stand out.

Final Verdict

The Pixel 10 Pro is a good phone, but it's not a game-changer. It's a solid upgrade, but it's not going to blow anyone away. Google has some work to do, especially when it comes to the keyboard.

questions

    What are the long-term implications of relying on AI for core smartphone functionalities, and what are the potential risks?
    How does Google plan to address the lack of cloud backup and dictionary synchronization in Gboard to compete with SwiftKey?
    If Gboard and SwiftKey had a keyboard showdown, who would win and why?

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