The Google Keyboard went on to become Gboard with the latest update that includes some new features such as the search engine integrated into the keyboard itself. If you already have GboardHere's a trick you can't miss, which is... add a row of numbers that appears permanently above the keyboard.
Do you use the numbers on your mobile?
The top row of numbers found on some mobile keyboards is very reminiscent of the numeric keypad that appeared on the right side of some physical keyboards and which was eliminated on many laptops. Its usefulness will depend on whether or not you use numbers frequently. But unlike a physical keyboard, on a mobile phone it's possible add this row If you want, and especially if you have a keyboard like Gboard.
For those who write passwords, perform quick calculations, enter addresses, or combine letters and numbers In the same message, having that row always visible avoids constantly switching modes and reduces errors. It's a productivity improvement that many users appreciate, especially when writing with one hand.
Adding a row of numbers to Gboard
El new google keyboard, Called Gboard, gives us the possibility to add a row of numbers that appears permanently on the keyboard of letters, so that if we regularly use the numbers we do not have to be changing the keyboard mode to be able to see the numbers, but we have them always available , something that will also be useful if we usually write numbers and words at the same time in many sentences.
Actually, activate this row of numbers It's really easy. You just have to go to where all the apps are on your phone and locate GboardOnce you've done that, you'll see all the keyboard options here. Look for PreferencesAnd within this section, you will find among the first options the one of Row of numbersActivate this feature and you'll have an additional row of numbers directly on your mobile phone, with the classic Google keyboard design, so you can easily use numbers without having to change the keyboard mode when you type.
If you prefer to do it from the System settings If you can't find the Gboard icon, you can also do that. The usual path is: Settings > Languages ​​and input (or Language and text input) > On-screen keyboard > Gboard > Preferences > activate Row of numbersAccording to the manufacturer, the menu names may vary slightly.
A useful detail: when you activate the number row, Gboard will display it in a permanent bases on the letter row, so you don't need to resort to symbol mode to enter individual numbers, amounts, or phone numbers.
Alternatives for writing numbers without the row
If you don't want to add that extra row, Gboard offers several ways to write numbers without changing the entire keyboard:
- Long press On the letters in the top row (Q, W, E…). Press and hold a key to insert the associated number.
- Tap on ?123 to switch to numbers and symbols, and come back to ABC when you're done.
- Keep ?123 Press and hold while typing numbers; when you release, Gboard automatically returns to letter mode. It's practical, although using it with one hand might be less comfortable than the fixed row.
These alternatives work well for specific uses, but if you write several issues a dayThe dedicated queue is usually more agile and natural.
Advantages and minor disadvantages
By enabling the numeric row You gain speed and typing continuity: you avoid interruptions and minimize errors due to mode changes. It's especially useful in messaging apps, forms, and when entering data. complex passwords with numbers.
As a counterpoint, that extra row takes up slightly more than height on screenOn compact phones, it might cover a bit more of the conversation or document. If you notice this, adjust the keyboard height from Preferences to balance visibility and comfort.
Tips and additional customization in Gboard
- Keyboard heightIn Preferences, reduce or increase the size so that the numeric row fits better on your screen.
- One hand modeUseful if you have trouble reaching the top row; it moves the keyboard to the side for better access to the numbers.
- Swipe writing y voice: combines the numeric keypad with glide typing or dictation for even faster typing.
- Emojis, GIFs, and symbols: accessible from the top bar and the shift button; with the number row, you no longer need to toggle so much for numbers.
If you don't see the option after activating it, check that you are using Gboard as default keyboard and that an alternative layout that hides elements (for example, a floating keyboard at its smallest size) is not enabled. On most Android phones with Gboard, the feature appears among the first options in Preferences.
The numerical row of Gboard It's a simple adjustment that transforms your everyday typing experience: fewer mode changes, more speed, and more comfortable data entry with one or both hands.