Android has so many features, and I just learned of the proofread with Gboard feature today. Useful as it may sound, this feature isn’t available to everyone, but at least Google is making some much-needed improvements with the latest Gboard beta update 13.9. Here’s the catch: it still only works on the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro, and exclusively in the US and in English only. Let’s just say, Google’s sense of inclusivity is getting a serious side-eye.
Yes, you read that right. In 2024, a proofreading tool built into a globally used keyboard app like Gboard is restricted to users in one country, and only on two specific phones. It’s hard to shake the feeling that Google forgot the “global” part of “global village” here. But hey, at least there’s progress, right? Version 13.9 of Gboard beta lets you proofread selected text instead of the entire message. This is great for catching typos in longwinded emails and messages, something the current proofreading mode reportedly struggles with.
While we commend the improvement to selected text functionality, it’s impossible to ignore the elephant in the room: the glaring lack of accessibility for this supposedly helpful feature. Let’s face it, non-English speaking users, and even those outside the US with less-than-perfect English, probably need this tool more than native speakers in one specific country. But apparently, Google has other priorities.
Is it too much to ask for inclusivity in a language tool? Especially one integrated into a keyboard used by millions worldwide? I think not. Until Google decides to share the proofreading love with the rest of the planet, this update, despite its minor improvement, feels like a step forward, two steps back in terms of global accessibility.
It’s worth noting the that the ability to proofread selected text in Gboard is currently hidden behind a flag, suggesting it’s a feature a little far from rollout, but it’s coming. Google is also working to add a new animation to the proofread button when something needs to be corrected.
Hillary Keverenge
2122 Posts
Tech has been my playground for over a decade. While the Android journey began early, it truly took flight with the revolutionary Lollipop update. Since then, it's been a parade of Android devices (with a sprinkle of iOS), culminating in a mostly happy marriage with Google's smart home ecosystem. Expect insightful articles and explorations of the ever-evolving world of Android and Google products coupled with occasional rants on the Nest smart home ecosystem.
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