Apps
Major Gboard 13.3 beta update brings stylus handwriting, voice typing and more gen AI features
Google releases a 13.3 beta update for the Gboard app, which comes with major changes and a bunch of new features for tablet and foldable devices, along with a redesigned toolbar. Currently, only beta testers can enjoy the new features of the Gboard app and the company will soon make it available to all Android users.
Gboard 13.3 introduces tablet-friendly features like stylus handwriting and voice typing enhancements, while also exploring the creative possibilities of generative AI.
Gboard 13.3 Beta Update Features
Stylus Handwriting Mode
One of the highlight features of the Gboard 13.3 beta update is the “stylus handwriting” mode, available through Settings > Languages. This mode converts stylus or finger-written content directly into text, even in various text fields. This function closely resembles Apple Pencil’s Scribble feature for iPadOS 14.
Furthermore, editing gestures are introduced, including selecting, inserting, joining, and creating new lines using a stylus.
Voice Typing Toolbar
A new voice typing toolbar enhances the user experience. The Assistant voice typing feature lets users type while speaking. The toolbar minimizes the keyboard, granting a larger screen view. Quick switches between the toolbar and keyboard are possible via a dedicated button.
Generative AI Proofreading
Generative AI is being used for proofreading, allowing users to correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation with a single tap. Users can indicate approval or disapproval for each suggested improvement.
Emogen: Gen AI Stickers
“Emogen” uses generative AI to create emoji-style stickers. By entering prompts, users can generate these stickers, which provide an innovative and engaging feature.
Generative AI ‘tone’
Another potential application of generative AI involves the concept of the “Help me write” feature found in Gmail and Google Docs. Within Gboard 13.3, a particular string highlights the ability to “Choose the style or tone for your rewriting.
WhatsApp for Android is releasing a new beta update, which includes a new feature that helps to manage contacts and group chats. This new update is available with version 2.24.21.35 via the Google Play Beta Program.
The fresh update of WhatsApp adds a new shortcut feature that will allow users to quickly add contacts and group chats to personalized lists. This feature can be accessed directly from the chat info screen. It simplifies the process and eliminates the need to navigate through settings.
Additionally, WhatsApp plans to introduce a similar shortcut in the top app bar during active conversations. This top bar shortcut will provide an easy way to organize contacts and groups while chatting. The company aims to enhance the overall user experience.
In an earlier version 2.24.19.25, WhatsApp was working on improving how users organize their contacts and groups. The new shortcut will allow users to quickly add people and groups to lists directly from the chat info screen.
Currently, WhatsApp is developing this new shortcut feature. It is expected to be included soon in the final version and available for Android users. Stay tuned, we will keep you updated on any new information regarding the release of this feature as it becomes available.
Google App is updating its bottom navigation bar by bringing back a more modern design called Material 3. This change introduces a new pill-shaped indicator that shows which tab you’re using.
The revamped bottom navigation bar arrives with the latest beta version 15.40 of the Google App, thanks to 9to5Google. With the fresh design, Google aims to make it easier for users to navigate.
Instead of just highlighting the tab icon you’re on, the new design surrounds the icon with a pill shape to make it clearer and more appealing. Google app initially introduced this design in 2023 but later decided to revert to its previous look. Now, after some changes, the app has once again been back with the updated look.
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Aside from the testing new design, the company is also looking into a new verification feature for its Search function. This feature would give verified businesses a blue checkmark, similar to what you see in Gmail to help users easily identify trustworthy sources online.
Not everyone has access to Google App’s latest beta update yet, but users can force-stop the app through their device settings if they don’t see the new look right away. With the return of Material 3 design and new features on the way, users can look forward to a more enhanced experience in the Google App.
Google retracts report suggesting MediaTek chip in Galaxy S25
A new Google Wallet Tile is rolling out to Samsung phones on One UI. Google is continuously upscaling the Wallet experiences. It’s not only adding support for more banks and cards but also fostering the features’ availability.
9to5Google discovered the new Google Wallet Quick Settings Tile on Samsung Galaxy phones. With the latest Play Services update, Google is bringing the new Wallet Tile. Meanwhile, the feature’s rollout is taking place sequentially.
Once your Galaxy installs Play Services version 24.39, you will be able to access the new Tile in Quick Settings. If you have pre-applied settings for toggles, you may need to edit the section and add the Google Wallet toggle on the page.
Google Wallet offers easier and seamless payment functionality. The new Tile will offer quicker access to the Wallet dashboard for bus passes, plane tickets, and more. Digital IDs would also be accessible in supporting territories through Wallet.
Keep the Google Wallet updated to the latest 24.38 version on your Galaxy. Visit the Google Play Store and update the app if the new version is available. You should wait rather than sideloading an APK to keep your Galaxy’s security up to the mark.
Samsung has recently launched the Tap to Transfer feature on its Wallet app. It is Samsung’s answer to iOS 18’s Apple Cash feature. Leveraging on the NFC technology, it allows instant money transfer between Galaxy devices.