Gboard -- a new keyboard from Google for iOS

Google's Gboard for iOS offers everything you'd expect from a keyboard. But it goes further by providing built-in search to hunt for information that you can easily share with messaging partners.

Pros

Built-in search: As you might expect from a Google app, Gboard efficiently integrates search and messaging, either with Apple's messaging app or third-party SMS and MMS apps.

Accurate swiping: With Gboard's Glide Typing, slide your finger over keys to create your message. We found Gboard did a good job of accurately detecting words as we swiped. Another handy gesture: The space bar acts as a tiny trackpad -- swipe over it quickly to navigate a text message.

GIFs and emoji: Tap the Emoji icon to the left of the space bar to access Gboard's collection of emoticons, emojis, and GIFs. A search field above the collection lets you hunt for an appropriate GIF or emoji instead of swiping through the library.

Privacy: Google says that except for searches, nothing that you type (such as chats or passwords) is sent to the company. Google does collect usage statistics.

Multiple languages: Gboard supports multiple languages and will automatically detect and autocorrect messages for whichever supported languages you are using.

Cons

Not complete parity across Android and iOS: The iOS version of Gboard lacks a few features found on the Android side, including voice dictation.

Bottom Line

Google's Gboard provides the basics you'd want in a keyboard but goes a step further by including built-in search that lets you share results in a message without leaving the chat app.

â?¢ Now with a tap of the G button, you'll have access to both Maps and YouTube, making it easier than ever to share location and video content.

â?¢ The new Ink feature lets you draw and share your creations right from your keyboard. To start drawing, just tap on the emoji button and then the pen icon.