Gboard’s New Voice Typing Toolbar Takes Center Stage on Pixel Phones

Gboard’s Assistant Voice Typing Toolbar Now Available on Pixel Phones

Introduction:

• Initially introduced on the Pixel Tablet last year, Gboard's Assistant voice typing toolbar is now rolling out to Google phones.
• The feature becomes available via a new “Toolbar” button (two downward arrows) next to the microphone when starting voice typing.

Features of the Toolbar:

• Primary Interface: A pill-shaped bar replaces the full keyboard, allowing users to dictate text while seeing more of the screen.
• Mic and Delete Key: The mic remains on the right with a delete key adjacent to it.
• Additional Options:
  • Settings
  • Show voice commands
  • Show clipboard
  • Show translate
  • Show emoji
  • Switch to vertical toolbar
  • Feedback
• Other Features:
  • A button to bring back the keyboard and a “Speak now” or “Paused” prompt.
  • The toolbar can be moved to the side of the screen as a vertical pill for more space.
  • Persistent: Remains active until manually disabled.

Rollout Details:

• First appeared on Pixel Tablets last January with official announcement in March 2024.
• Now available with the latest Gboard beta (version 15.0) for Pixel phone owners, though not yet widely rolled out.