If you’re an avid user of the SwiftKey keyboard on your iPhone or iPad, you may have noticed that it has recently disappeared from your device. This is because Microsoft, the company that owns SwiftKey, has decided to discontinue the keyboard on iOS devices. In this article, we’ll discuss the reasons behind this decision and explore some alternative options for word prediction and gesture typing on your iPhone and iPad.
Why Did Microsoft Discontinue SwiftKey on iOS?
Microsoft acquired SwiftKey in 2016, and since then, the company has been focusing on integrating the keyboard into its own products, such as Microsoft Office and Windows. This shift in focus has led to the decision to discontinue the keyboard on iOS devices. Microsoft has stated that they will continue to support the keyboard for existing users, but it will no longer be available for download on the App Store.
Alternative Options for Word Prediction
One of the main features of SwiftKey was its accurate word prediction, which made typing on a touchscreen much easier and faster. If you’re looking for a similar experience, there are a few alternative options available on the App Store. One popular option is Gboard, which is Google’s keyboard app. It offers similar word prediction capabilities and also includes features like GIF search and voice typing.
Another option is Fleksy, which boasts the fastest typing experience on a touchscreen. It also offers customizable themes and extensions for added functionality. Other alternatives include Grammarly Keyboard, which focuses on improving your writing with grammar and spelling suggestions, and TouchPal Keyboard, which offers a wide range of themes and emojis.
Gesture Typing Alternatives
Another popular feature of SwiftKey was its gesture typing, which allowed users to type by swiping their finger across the keyboard instead of tapping individual keys. If you’re a fan of this feature, there are a few alternative options available. Gboard also offers gesture typing, as well as the ability to switch between gesture typing and traditional tapping.
Another option is Swype, which was one of the first keyboards to introduce gesture typing. It also offers customizable themes and a built-in dictionary. Other alternatives include TouchPal Keyboard and Fleksy, which both offer gesture typing along with other features.
Final Thoughts
While it may be disappointing to see SwiftKey go, there are plenty of alternative options available on the App Store for word prediction and gesture typing. It’s important to note that Microsoft will continue to support the keyboard for existing users, so if you already have it installed on your device, you can continue to use it. However, if you’re looking for a new keyboard app, be sure to explore the various options and find one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Have you tried any of these alternative options? Let us know in the comments.
