How to Enable One-Handed Mode in Android’s Google Keyboard

Last Updated: Mar 4, 2024 by

Typing on a smartphone can be a challenge, especially if you have a larger device. It can be difficult to reach all the keys with just one hand, leading to typos and frustration. Luckily, Android’s Google Keyboard has a one-handed mode that can make typing with one hand much easier. In this article, we’ll show you how to enable one-handed mode in Android’s Google Keyboard.

What is One-Handed Mode?

One-handed mode is a feature that allows you to adjust the keyboard layout to make it easier to type with just one hand. This can be especially useful for those with larger devices or smaller hands. When enabled, the keyboard will shift to one side of the screen, making it easier to reach all the keys with just one hand.

Enabling One-Handed Mode

To enable one-handed mode in Android’s Google Keyboard, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Google Keyboard app on your Android device.
  2. Tap on the three dots in the top right corner of the keyboard.
  3. Select “Settings” from the menu.
  4. Tap on “Preferences.”
  5. Scroll down and toggle on “One-handed mode.”

Once enabled, you can switch between one-handed mode and the regular keyboard layout by tapping on the arrow icon in the bottom right corner of the keyboard.

Customizing One-Handed Mode

You can also customize the one-handed mode layout to better fit your needs. To do this, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Google Keyboard app on your Android device.
  2. Tap on the three dots in the top right corner of the keyboard.
  3. Select “Settings” from the menu.
  4. Tap on “Preferences.”
  5. Scroll down and tap on “One-handed mode.”
  6. Toggle on “Customize layout.”
  7. Use the slider to adjust the keyboard size and position.

You can also choose which side of the screen you want the keyboard to shift to by tapping on “Handedness” and selecting either “Left” or “Right.”

Benefits of One-Handed Mode

One-handed mode can make typing on a larger device much easier and more efficient. It can also help reduce the risk of dropping your device while trying to reach all the keys. Additionally, it can be useful for those with disabilities or injuries that make it difficult to type with both hands.

Other Tips for One-Handed Typing

In addition to enabling one-handed mode, there are a few other tips you can use to make typing with one hand easier:

  • Use swipe typing: Many keyboard apps, including Google Keyboard, have a swipe typing feature that allows you to type by swiping your finger across the keyboard instead of tapping each individual key.
  • Use voice typing: If you have trouble typing with one hand, you can also use the voice typing feature on your device. Simply tap on the microphone icon on the keyboard and speak your message.
  • Use a smaller keyboard: If you find that the one-handed mode layout is still too large for your liking, you can try using a smaller keyboard app that is specifically designed for one-handed typing.

By enabling one-handed mode and using these tips, you can make typing on your Android device much easier and more efficient.

Have you tried one-handed mode on your Android device? Let us know in the comments.

Gulrukh Ch

About the Author: Gulrukh Ch

Gulrukh Chaudhary, an accomplished digital marketer and technology writer with a passion for exploring the frontiers of innovation. Armed with a Master's degree in Information Technology, Gulrukh seamlessly blends her technical prowess with her creative flair, resulting in captivating insights into the world of emerging technologies. Discover more about her on her LinkedIn profile.